intelligent design

noun

: the theory that matter, the various forms of life, and the world were created by a designing intelligence

Examples of intelligent design in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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In a world struggling with environmental challenges, the Spreewald is a necessary reminder that sustainability is about intelligent design and a deep respect for the interconnectedness of all living things. Christopher Elliott, Forbes.com, 21 Feb. 2026 As routines shift and people look for more flexible ways to stay active, smart home gyms have stepped in—not just as convenient alternatives, but as serious tools built around personalization, data, and intelligent design. Jason Phillips, USA Today, 6 Nov. 2025 The North Dakota Legislature this year debated a bill that would have allowed public school teaching on intelligent design. Peter Smith, Los Angeles Times, 25 May 2025 The outcome was similar, with a judge ruling that intelligent design is not science, and that forcing teachers to give equal time to intelligent design as an alternative to Darwin’s theory would be unconstitutional. Dan Falk, Smithsonian Magazine, 21 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for intelligent design

Word History

First Known Use

1990, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of intelligent design was in 1990

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Cite this Entry

“Intelligent design.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/intelligent%20design. Accessed 5 Jul. 2026.

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