I. ˈplan noun
Etymology: French, plane, foundation, ground plan; partly from Latin planum level ground, from neuter of planus level; partly from French planter to plant, fix in place, from Late Latin plantare — more at floor , plant
Date: 1706
1. : a drawing or diagram drawn on a plane: as
a. : a top or horizontal view of an object
b. : a large-scale map of a small area
2.
a. : a method for achieving an end
b. : an often customary method of doing something : procedure
c. : a detailed formulation of a program of action
d. : goal , aim
3. : an orderly arrangement of parts of an overall design or objective
4. : a detailed program (as for payment or the provision of some service)
pension plan
• plan·less -ləs adjective
• plan·less·ly adverb
• plan·less·ness noun
Synonyms:
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
II. verb
( planned ; plan·ning )
Date: 1728
transitive verb
1. : to arrange the parts of : design
plan a new layout
2. : to devise or project the realization or achievement of
planned their escape
3. : to have in mind : intend
plan s to leave soon
intransitive verb
1. : to make plans
plan ahead
2. : to have a specified intention — used with on
plan s on going
• plan·ner noun