Definition of DESIGNATION (original) (raw)
1
: the act of indicating or identifying
the designation of a speech sound
2
: appointment to or selection for an office, post, or service
awaiting his next designation
3
: a distinguishing name, sign, or title
… the only star in Lynx with a Greek letter designation—
Richard Berry
approved the area's designation as a wildlife refuge
4
: the relation between a sign and the thing signified
Synonyms
Examples of designation in a Sentence
Though many people call her a liberal, it is not a designation she uses herself. we've never given the homemade gadget a proper designation
Recent Examples on the Web
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.
Federal law allows the Department of Homeland Security to issue TPS designations allowing eligible migrants from troubled countries to stay in the U.S., and the deportation shields expire in 18 months or less if not renewed or revoked. —Douglas Hanks, Miami Herald, 4 Feb. 2025 In late 2024, six Houston restaurants earned MICHELIN Stars, and another 17 spots received a Bib Gourmand designation for delivering high-quality fare for the price. —Karla Walsh, Southern Living, 1 Feb. 2025 Cored players might not necessarily suit up for the franchise that applied the designation, but cored players can only then be moved in sign-and-trade agreements. —Sabreena Merchant, The Athletic, 31 Jan. 2025 By age 21, our undergraduate colleges award a bachelor of science degree in aerospace, chemical, electrical, mechanical, molecular, nuclear, and petroleum engineering, qualifying graduates for the professional engineer designation. —Matthew G. Andersson, Hartford Courant, 31 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for designation 
Word History
First Known Use
14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1
Time Traveler
The first known use of designation was in the 14th century
Dictionary Entries Near designation
Cite this Entry
“Designation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/designation. Accessed 14 Feb. 2025.
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Last Updated: 9 Feb 2025 - Updated example sentences
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