as in layout
the way in which something is sized, arranged, or organized
geese flying south in a V-formation
Synonyms & Similar Words
Relevance
Example Sentences
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of formation
George Washington ordered all of his formations to be vaccinated against smallpox the following year.
—
Steven Beynon,
ABC News,
1 July 2026
An outsider to the country’s traditions, Hiddink overhauled rosters, training methods, and playing formations to remold the team’s identity and playing style.
—
Michael Morris,
Time,
1 July 2026
Deadheading will keep blossoms in full supply, while also promoting bushier growth, giving them a neat and tidy appearance, and prevents seed formation that leads to reseeding.
—
Karen Brewer Grossman,
Southern Living,
30 June 2026
Each serving delivers 650 milligrams of calcium along with vitamin D3, which helps the body absorb calcium, and vitamin K, an essential nutrient that supports the formation of bone proteins.
—
Taylor Lane,
Flow Space,
30 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for formation
Steven Beynon,
ABC News,
1 July 2026
An outsider to the country’s traditions, Hiddink overhauled rosters, training methods, and playing formations to remold the team’s identity and playing style.
—
Michael Morris,
Time,
1 July 2026
Deadheading will keep blossoms in full supply, while also promoting bushier growth, giving them a neat and tidy appearance, and prevents seed formation that leads to reseeding.
—
Karen Brewer Grossman,
Southern Living,
30 June 2026
Each serving delivers 650 milligrams of calcium along with vitamin D3, which helps the body absorb calcium, and vitamin K, an essential nutrient that supports the formation of bone proteins.
—
Taylor Lane,
Flow Space,
30 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for formation
Recent Examples of Synonyms for formation
Noun
-
While choosing the layout, the tribe hosted listening sessions with community members and elders.
-
Engineers created a digital twin before construction to optimize the building layout and equipment placement.
Noun
-
As convenience store formats encroach on grocery and superstore territory in both size and assortment, chains need to consider how to maximize their popularity without creating excessive additional competition.
-
Making mini lava cakes is fussy, but this large format variation is as easy as can be.
Cite this Entry
“Formation.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/formation. Accessed 5 Jul. 2026.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
