n. & v.
--n.
1. a a systematic plan or arrangement for work, action, etc. b a proposed or operational systematic arrangement (a colour scheme).
2 an artful or deceitful plot.
3 a timetable, outline, syllabus, etc.
--v.
1. intr. (often foll. by for, or to + infin.) plan esp. secretly or deceitfully; intrigue.
2 tr. plan to bring about, esp. artfully or deceitfully (schemed their downfall).
Derivatives:
schemer n.
Etymology: L schema f. Gk (as SCHEMA)