Format

/ˈfɔːr.mæt/

Meaning & Definition

noun
The type or style of something, particularly in relation to its presentation.
She chose a colorful format for her presentation to make it more engaging.
A structure or mode of a presentation, such as a layout for a book or a method used for a broadcast.
The television show will change its format to include more audience participation.
The arrangement or layout of data or information, often used in reference to document styles.
The report must be submitted in the correct format specified by the guidelines.
verb
To arrange or organize data or information in a specific layout or structure.
You need to format the document before sending it to the client.
To prepare a storage device for use, typically by erasing all its contents and structuring it for file storage.
He decided to format his hard drive to clear up space.

Etymology

Latin 'formatus', meaning shaped or formed.

Common Phrases and Expressions

format case
The case of letters used when presenting text, such as upper case or lower case.
fit to format
To adjust something to match a specific layout or structure.
data format
The specific way that information is structured and presented, such as text, image, or audio.

Related Words

reformat
To change the format of something.
formatted
Arranged or organized in a specific format.
reformatting
The process of changing the format of a document or data.

Slang Meanings

To redo or restructure something.
We need to format this project before the deadline.
To reset or clear data, especially in tech contexts.
I had to format my phone because it was running slow.