arrange

verb ar·range \ə-ˈrānj\

: to move and organize (things) into a particular order or position

: to give a particular order or position to the parts of (something)

: to organize the details of something before it happens : to plan (something)

ar·rangedar·rang·ing

Full Definition of ARRANGE

transitive verb

: to put into a proper order or into a correct or suitable sequence, relationship, or adjustment <arrange flowers in a vase> <arrange cards alphabetically>

: to make preparations for : plan <arranged a reception for the visitor>

a : to adapt (a musical composition) by scoring for voices or instruments other than those for which originally written

b : orchestrate

: to bring about an agreement or understanding concerning : settle <arrange an exchange of war prisoners>

intransitive verb

: to bring about an agreement or understanding <arranged to have a table at the restaurant>

: to make preparations : plan <arranged for a vacation with his family>

— ar·rang·er \ə-ˈrān-jər\ noun

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Origin of ARRANGE

Middle English arangen, from Middle French arenger, from a- + renger to set in ranks, from renc, ranc row — more at rank

First Known Use: 1638

Related to ARRANGE

Synonyms: agree (on), decide, fix, set, settle, dispose of

Antonyms: derange, disarrange, disarray, disorder, mess (up), muss (up), rumple, upset

Synonym Discussion of ARRANGE

order, arrange, marshal, organize, systematize, methodize mean to put persons or things into their proper places in relation to each other. order suggests a straightening out so as to eliminate confusion <ordered her business affairs>. arrange implies a setting in sequence, relationship, or adjustment <arranged the files numerically>. marshal suggests gathering and arranging in preparation for a particular operation or effective use <marshaling the facts for argument>. organize implies arranging so that the whole aggregate works as a unit with each element having a proper function <organized the volunteers into teams>. systematize implies arranging according to a predetermined scheme <systematized billing procedures>. methodize suggests imposing an orderly procedure rather than a fixed scheme <methodizes every aspect of daily living>.