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scheme

noun
\ ˈskēm How to pronounce scheme (audio) \

Definition of scheme

 (Entry 1 of 2)

1a archaic

(1) : a mathematical or astronomical diagram
(2) : a representation of the astrological aspects of the planets at a particular time
b : a graphic sketch or outline
2 : a concise statement or table : epitome
3 : a plan or program of action especially : a crafty or secret one
4 : a systematic or organized configuration : design color scheme

scheme

verb
schemed; scheming

Definition of scheme (Entry 2 of 2)

transitive verb

: to form a scheme for

intransitive verb

: to form plans also : plot, intrigue
Other Words from scheme Synonyms Choose the Right Synonym More Example Sentences Learn More about scheme

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Other Words from scheme

Verb

schemer noun

Choose the Right Synonym for scheme

Noun

plan, design, plot, scheme, project mean a method devised for making or doing something or achieving an end. plan always implies mental formulation and sometimes graphic representation. plans for a house design often suggests a particular pattern and some degree of achieved order or harmony. a design for a new dress plot implies a laying out in clearly distinguished sections with attention to their relations and proportions. the plot of the play scheme stresses calculation of the end in view and may apply to a plan motivated by craftiness and self-interest. a scheme to defraud the government project often stresses imaginative scope and vision. a project to develop the waterfront

Examples of scheme in a Sentence

Noun

 a scheme to cheat people out of their money The company has a new scheme for insurance coverage.
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Recent Examples on the Web: Noun

 Now, new coach Brian Flores and his players can focus on playing football games that actually matter in the grand scheme. — Safid Deen, sun-sentinel.com, "Josh Rosen on losing starting QB battle: ‘It’s only [a matter of] time this team is mine’," 30 Aug. 2019 Defensively, players have acknowledged that there’s been a different energy around fall camp, and simplifying the scheme has helped with that. — Stephen Means, cleveland.com, "Ohio State football will go 11-1 and re-establish itself as one of the nation’s top teams under Ryan Day," 30 Aug. 2019

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'scheme.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

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First Known Use of scheme

Noun

circa 1595, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Verb

1749, in the meaning defined at transitive sense

History and Etymology for scheme

Noun

Latin schemat-, schema arrangement, figure, from Greek schēmat-, schēma, from echein to have, hold, be in (such) a condition; akin to Old English sige victory, Sanskrit sahate he prevails

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