framework

American  

[freym-wurk] / ˈfreɪmˌwɜrk /

noun

1. a basic structure, plan, or system, as of concepts, values, customs, or rules: The empire foundered, leaving its people in anarchy and lawlessness, as the framework of their society and culture collapsed around them.

   The bill, if passed, will provide a legal framework for privacy and data protection.

   The empire foundered, leaving its people in anarchy and lawlessness, as the framework of their society and culture collapsed around them.

2. a skeletal structure designed to support or enclose something.

3. a frame or structure composed of parts fitted and joined together.

4. the construction of frames.

5. work done in, on, or with a frame.

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framework British  

/ ˈfreɪmˌwɜːk /

noun

1. a structural plan or basis of a project

2. a structure or frame supporting or containing something

3. frames collectively

4. work such as embroidery or weaving done in or on a frame

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Other Word Forms

• underframework noun

Etymology

Origin of framework

First recorded in 1635–45; frame + work

Explanation

Framework refers to the initial structure of a building. If you ever wanted to walk through walls, you can get your chance when a new house has just the framework done, because the house will have walls with openings for windows and doors but no plaster or siding. From the literal meaning of framework — the initial structure of a building — English added figurative meanings. The noun framework, for example, can be any underlying structure something is built on, so you will see examples like: a framework for solving the problem, a framework for the computer program, and a framework for a new relationship.

Example Sentences

Iranian state TV reported that Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian said Tehran "will continue to talk only within the framework of international law" in a phone call with his French counterpart Emmanuel Macron.

From Barron's • Apr. 14, 2026

However, quantum theory also offers another equally important framework developed by Werner Heisenberg.

From Science Daily • Apr. 14, 2026

Last month, Mladenov outlined a framework for Gaza's demilitarisation as part of the second phase of the ceasefire deal agreed by Hamas and Israel in October.

From BBC • Apr. 14, 2026

The committee had long followed a set of guidelines known as the Evidence to Recommendations framework, which establishes clear rules for how different types of evidence must be weighed and evaluated when making decisions.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 14, 2026

The tribe did not serve as a permanent political framework, and even if it had seasonal meeting places, there were no permanent towns or institutions.

From "Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind" by Yuval Noah Harari

Related Words

• groundwork
• plan
• scheme
• structure