plural schemata
ˈskē-mə-tə 
also schemas
also schemas
1
: a diagrammatic presentation
broadly
: a structured framework or plan : outline
2
: a mental codification of experience that includes a particular organized way of perceiving cognitively and responding to a complex situation or set of stimuli
Examples of schema in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
There’s an elaborate schema—anger, lust, the whole list—finding ways to discern and regulate.
—
Jay Caspian Kang, New Yorker, 10 Feb. 2026
If the state could copy the country’s schema, even a 10 percent diversion rate shortly after implementation could keep 118,000 tons of textiles out of landfills in a single year.
—Alexandra Harrell, Sourcing Journal, 9 Feb. 2026
However, the government wants to pass the policy proactively and is discussing the topic out of concern over how a detention center would affect the schema of local neighborhoods and affect the local economy.
—Sofi Zeman
february 8, Kansas City Star, 8 Feb. 2026
Include database schemas with specific field names and relationships.
—Joe Toscano, Forbes.com, 20 Jan. 2026
See All Example Sentences for schema
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Jay Caspian Kang, New Yorker, 10 Feb. 2026
If the state could copy the country’s schema, even a 10 percent diversion rate shortly after implementation could keep 118,000 tons of textiles out of landfills in a single year.
—Alexandra Harrell, Sourcing Journal, 9 Feb. 2026
However, the government wants to pass the policy proactively and is discussing the topic out of concern over how a detention center would affect the schema of local neighborhoods and affect the local economy.
—Sofi Zeman
february 8, Kansas City Star, 8 Feb. 2026
Include database schemas with specific field names and relationships.
—Joe Toscano, Forbes.com, 20 Jan. 2026
See All Example Sentences for schema
Cite this Entry
“Schema.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/schema. Accessed 16 Feb. 2026.
Copy CitationMedical Definition
schema
noun
sche·ma
ˈskē-mə
plural schemata
-mət-ə
also schemas
also schemas
1
: a nonconscious adjustment of the brain to the afferent impulses indicative of bodily posture that is a prerequisite of appropriate bodily movement and of spatial perception
2
: the organization of experience in the mind or brain that includes a particular organized way of perceiving cognitively and responding to a complex situation or set of stimuli
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