scheme

noun
\ ˈskēm \
Definition of scheme
(Entry 1 of 2)
1: a plan or program of actionespecially : a crafty or secret one
2: a systematic or organized configuration : DESIGNcolor scheme
3: a concise statement or table : EPITOME
4a: a graphic sketch or outline
barchaic
(1): a mathematical or astronomical diagram
(2): a representation of the astrological aspects of the planets at a particular
time

scheme
verb
schemed; scheming
Definition of scheme (Entry 2 of 2)
intransitive verb
: to form plansalso : PLOT, INTRIGUE
transitive verb
: to form a scheme for
Other Words from scheme
Verb

schemer noun
Synonyms for scheme
Synonyms: Noun
artifice, device, dodge, fetch, flimflam, gambit, gimmick, jig, juggle, knack, play, p
loy, ruse, shenanigan, sleight, stratagem, trick, wile

Synonyms: Verb

collude, compass, connive, conspire, contrive, intrigue, machinate, plot, put up

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Choose the Right Synonym for scheme

Noun

PLAN, DESIGN, PLOT, SCHEME, PROJECT mean a method devised for

making or doing something or achieving an end. PLAN always implies
mental formulation and sometimes graphic representation. plans for a
house DESIGN often suggests a particular pattern and some degree of
achieved order or harmony. a design for a new dress PLOT implies a laying
out in clearly distinguished sections with attention to their relations and
proportions. the plot of the play SCHEME stresses calculation of the end in
view and may apply to a plan motivated by craftiness and self-
interest. a scheme to defraud the government PROJECT often stresses
imaginative scope and vision. a project to develop the waterfront
Examples of scheme in a Sentence
Noun

a scheme to cheat people out of their money The company has a

new scheme for insurance coverage.
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Recent Examples on the Web: Noun

In the grand scheme of things, tacking on almost 10 more yards is

big.— Robert Avery, Houston Chronicle, "Deer Park hopes its fourth-quarter drama won’t be
needed in Katy Saturday night," 14 Sep. 2019The penalty ended up not mattering in
the grand scheme of things.— Dan Labbe, cleveland.com, "Browns offensive
coordinator Todd Monken: NFL told Browns OT Greg Robinson’s blindside block shouldn’t
have drawn flag," 13 Sep. 2019
These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect
current usage of the word 'scheme.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of
Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
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First Known Use of scheme

Noun

circa 1595, in the meaning defined at sense 4b(1)

Verb

1749, in the meaning defined at transitive sense

History and Etymology for scheme
Noun

Latin schemat-, schema arrangement, figure, from Greek schēmat-, schēma,

from echein to have, hold, be in (such) a condition; akin to Old
English sige victory, Sanskrit sahate he prevails