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Definition of format

format

/ˈfɔːr.mæt/
for · mat

Plural:formats
•
Adjective:formattable
•
Past Simple:formatted
•
Past Participle:formatted
•
Present Participle:formatting
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format Lexical Profile

format Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

The way in which something is arranged or set out, especially the structure or layout of a document, presentation, or event.

Example

"The professor requested that all essays be submitted in a specific format."


2

A defined structure for the processing, storage, or display of digital data.

Example

"We need to convert the video into a different format so it can play on older devices."


3

The shape, size, and general physical makeup of a printed publication.

Example

"The dictionary is available in both a pocket-sized and a large-print format."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• verb

1

To arrange or organize something into a particular layout or structure.

Example

"She carefully formatted the spreadsheet to make the financial data easier to read."


2

To prepare a digital storage medium to receive and store data, typically erasing any existing information in the process.

Example

"You will need to format the USB drive before you can use it with this operating system."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for format

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed from French 'format' or German 'Format', originating from Latin 'formatus', the past participle of 'formare' meaning 'to form' or 'to fashion'.

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020

Cite this Entry


Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Format. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/format
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