First Known Use: 14th century
Dictionary
1frame
verb \ˈfrām\
: to put (something) inside an open structure that holds it : to put (something) in a frame
: to be around the edge of (something)
: to produce (something written or spoken) : to express (a question, answer, etc.) in words
framedfram·ing
Full Definition of FRAME
transitive verb
1
: to construct by fitting and uniting the parts of the skeleton of (a structure)
2
3
a : to devise falsely (as a criminal charge) b : to contrive the evidence against (an innocent person) so that a verdict of guilty is assured c : fix 7b
4
: to fit or adjust especially to something or for an end : arrange
5
obsolete : produce
6
: to enclose in a frame; also : to enclose as if in a frame
intransitive verb
See frame defined for English-language learners
See frame defined for kids
ADVERTISEMENT
Origin of FRAME
Middle English, to benefit, construct, from Old English framian to benefit, make progress; akin to Old Norse fram forward, Old English fram from
2frame
noun
: the basic structure and shape of the body of a person or animal
: an arrangement of parts that support and form the basic shape of something
: an open structure that holds something (such as glass or a picture)
Full Definition of FRAME
1
2
a : the underlying constructional system or structure that gives shape or strength (as to a building) b : a frame dwelling
3
obsolete : the act or manner of framing
4
a : a machine built upon or within a framework <a spinning frame> b : an open case or structure made for admitting, enclosing, or supporting something <a window frame> c (1) : a part of a pair of glasses that holds one of the lenses (2) plural : that part of a pair of glasses other than the lenses d : a structural unit in an automobile chassis supported on the axles and supporting the rest of the chassis and the body
5
a : an enclosing border b : the matter or area enclosed in such a border: as (1) : one of the squares in which scores for each round are recorded (as in bowling); also : a round in bowling (2) : an individual drawing in a comic strip usually enclosed by a bordering line (3) : one picture of the series on a length of film (4) : a complete image for display (as on a television set) c : an inning in baseball d (1) : framework 1a (2) : context, frame of reference e : an event that forms the background for the action of a novel or play
6
: frame-up
See frame defined for English-language learners
First Known Use of FRAME
14th century
Related to FRAME
- Synonyms
- architecture, armature, cadre, configuration, edifice, fabric, framework, framing, infrastructure, shell, skeleton, structure
3frame
adjective
Definition of FRAME
: having a wood frame <frame houses>
First Known Use of FRAME
1753
FRAME Defined for Kids
1frame
verb \ˈfrām\
framedfram·ing
Definition of FRAME for Kids
1
: to enclose in or as if in a frame <frame a picture> <Long brown hair framed his face.>
2
: to produce (something) in writing or spoken words <frame a constitution>
3
: to make appear guilty <He's being framed for the crime.>
— fram·er noun
2frame
noun
Definition of FRAME for Kids
1
: the structure of an animal and especially a human body : physique <a muscular frame>
2
: an arrangement of parts that give form or support to something <the frame of a house>
3
: an open case or structure for holding or enclosing something <window frame> <picture frame>
3frame
adjective
Definition of FRAME for Kids
: having a wooden frame <a two-story frame house>
Medical Dictionary
frame
noun \ˈfrām\
Medical Definition of FRAME
Learn More About FRAME
Browse
ADVERTISEMENT
Seen & Heard
What made you want to look up frame? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).