Frame

Pronunciation

/freɪm/

Definitions

Noun (n)

1. A border or structure that surrounds or holds something: An external case or structure that supports or protects its contents, such as a picture frame holding a painting or a window frame surrounding a pane of glass. Example: “The artist chose an ornate gold frame for her masterpiece.”

2. Structure or framework: The basic supporting structure of a building, vehicle, furniture piece, or other object. Example: “The house’s wooden frame was still sturdy after decades.”

3. Conceptual framework: A set of ideas, principles, or concepts that provide structure for understanding a subject or issue. Example: “They tried to develop a new conceptual frame for analyzing economic policies.”

4. Bodily frame: The general build or physique of a person or animal, often referring to the skeletal structure. Example: “She had a tall, slender frame.”

5. Temporal frame: A specific period or duration of time within which events occur. Example: “The film’s narrative takes place within a 24-hour time frame.”

Verb (v)

1. To construct or put together a frame: To build or assemble the structural parts of something. Example: “They will soon begin to frame the new house.”

2. To present or organize: To arrange information, ideas, or a situation in a particular way, often with implications for interpretation. Example: “The article frames the debate on climate change in terms of national security.”

Phrases

• In the frame: Being under consideration or suspicion; a possible candidate or cause. Example: “Several suspects are currently in the frame for the theft.”
• Put someone in their place/frame of reference: To help someone understand where they fit in or how their perspective aligns with others’. Example: “Her mentor helped her put herself in the frame of reference of industry leaders.”
• Frame of mind: A person’s state of mind or attitude at a particular time. Example: “He wasn’t in the right frame of mind to make important decisions.”

Example Sentences

• Noun: “The antique mirror had a beautifully carved wooden frame.”
• Verb: “We plan to frame the old photograph ourselves instead of taking it to a professional.”

Synonyms

• Border
• Outline
• Framework
• Structure
• Skeleton (for bodily frame)
• Build (for bodily frame)
• Construct (as a verb)
• Present (as a verb, in the context of ideas or information)