blueprint

[ bloo-print ]

noun

1. a process of photographic printing, printing, used chiefly in copying architectural and mechanical drawings, which produces a white line on a blue background.
2. a print made by this process.
3. a detailed outline or plan of action:

   a blueprint for success.

verb (used with object)

1. to make a blueprint of or for.

blueprint

/ ˈbluːˌprɪnt /

noun

1. Also calledcyanotype a photographic print of plans, technical drawings, etc, consisting of white lines on a blue background
2. an original plan or prototype that influences subsequent design or practice

   the Montessori method was the blueprint for education in the 1940s

verb

1. tr to make a blueprint of (a plan)

Other Words From

• blueprinter noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of blueprint¹

First recorded in 1885–90; blue + print

Example Sentences

Rosalind Franklin, James Watson and Francis Crick discovered the structure of DNA -- that molecular blueprint for life -- over 70 years ago.

From Science Daily

This genetic blueprint will be an invaluable tool for future conservation efforts.

From Science Daily

If the force of Wise’s version was constrained by the technology, it provided the blueprint for a plethora of face-melting heavy metal covers.

From New York Times

The outcome varies depending on which parts are cut out, resulting in distinct blueprints for different proteins.

From Science Daily

While it may seem like an odd coincidence for spacetime to follow an analogous engineering blueprint as the human body, Monjo argues this is perfectly logical.

From Salon

Related Words

• draft
• game plan
• master plan
• model
• prototype
• scheme
• sketch