Definition & Meaning of "format"in English

to format

VERB

to arrange something, such as text or data, in a specific structure or layout

Transitive: to format text or data

Examples

The graphic designer formatted the report, ensuring consistency in font styles and page layout for a professional look.

The editor frequently formats manuscripts according to publishing guidelines.

(computing) to prepare a storage device, such as a hard drive or USB, for use by deleting all the data on it and setting it up for a specific file system

Transitive: to format a digital storage device

Examples

I need to format my external hard drive before transferring files to it.

Before selling my old laptop, I need to format the hard drive to erase all my personal data.

Format

NOUN

the overall design, layout, or presentation style of a printed or published work

Examples

The magazine changed its format to attract younger readers.

That newspaper still uses a traditional broadsheet format.

a defined structure used to arrange or encode data for computer storage or processing

Examples

The document was saved in PDF format.

You need to convert the file to a compatible format before uploading.

the physical dimensions, proportions, or spatial arrangement of an artwork or visual medium

What is "format"?

Format refers to the size and shape of a physical artwork, such as a painting, sculpture, or photograph. It determines how the artwork is arranged and presented, influencing its visual impact and how it is understood. The format can affect both the viewer's experience and how the piece fits into various spaces or settings. For example, a large, rectangular painting might have a different impact compared to a small, square one.

Examples

The painting's large format dominated the gallery wall.

He prefers working in a square format for his portraits.

Lexical Tree