Definition of PLAN (original) (raw)

1

: a drawing or diagram drawn on a plane: such as

a

: a top or horizontal view of an object

b

: a large-scale map of a small area

2

a

: a method for achieving an end

b

: an often customary method of doing something : procedure

c

: a detailed formulation of a program of action

3

: an orderly arrangement of parts of an overall design or objective

4

: a detailed program (as for payment or the provision of some service)

Examples of plan in a Sentence

Noun

the army's plan of attack We need to agree on a plan of action. Our plan was to have the guests park on the street, not the lawn. When we met them at the restaurant, they said there had been a change of plan. He changed his long-distance plan. Verb

We are busy planning the party. The prisoners spent months planning their escape. a teacher planning her next lesson The students are planning a protest. We have something very special planned for your birthday. Their wedding is planned for June. a planned series of books about cars Things don't always go as planned. Always remember to plan ahead.

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.

The Venezuelan government requested information about the incident and the action plan for mitigating and containing the spill, and demanded reparation measures in accordance with international environmental law, the statement added. —Los Angeles Times, 11 May 2026 While this puts a literal damper on vacation plans, locals celebrate this time of year, as it is needed for keeping the lush foliage and crops at their best. —Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 11 May 2026

The hotel plans to organize excursions to nearby wine estates for tastings. —Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 12 May 2026 The state is planning a $10 million project that will impact two communities and, in addition to replacing outdated infrastructure, the work is intended to improve safety for motorists and pedestrians, records show. —Sean Krofssik, Hartford Courant, 12 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for plan

Word History

Etymology

Noun

French, plane, foundation, ground plan; partly from Latin planum level ground, from neuter of planus level; partly from French planter to plant, fix in place, from Late Latin plantare — more at floor, plant

Combining form

Latin planus

First Known Use

Noun

1635, in the meaning defined at sense 2c

Verb

1718, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 2

Time Traveler

The first known use of plan was in 1635