setting

American  

[set-ing] / ˈsɛt ɪŋ /

noun

1. the act of a person or thing that sets.

2. the surroundings or environment of anything.

   The garden was a perfect setting for the house.

3. the mounting in which a jewel is set.

4. a group of all the articles, as of china, silver, or glass, required for setting a table or a single place at a table.

5. the locale or period in which the action of a novel, play, film, etc., takes place.

   The setting of this story is Verona in the 15th century.

6. Also called stage setting.  Also called stage set.  the scenery and other properties used in a dramatic performance.

7. Music.

   1. a piece of music composed for certain words.

   2. a piece of music composed for a particular medium, or arranged for other than the original medium.

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setting British  

/ ˈsɛtɪŋ /

noun

1. the surroundings in which something is set; scene

2. the scenery, properties, or background, used to create the location for a stage play, film, etc

3. music a composition consisting of a certain text and music provided or arranged for it

4. the metal mounting and surround of a gem

   diamonds in an antique gold setting

5. the tableware, cutlery, etc, for a single place at table

6. any of a series of points on a scale or dial that can be selected to control the level as of temperature, speed, etc, at which a machine functions

7. a clutch of eggs in a bird's nest, esp a clutch of hen's eggs

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Related Words

See environment.

Other Word Forms

• nonsetting adjective
• unsetting adjective

Etymology

Origin of setting

First recorded in 1375–1425; Middle English; set, -ing ¹

Example Sentences

In a rural setting, a field where helicopters can land.

From Barron's • Apr. 3, 2026

The setting did not match what scientists expected.

From Science Daily • Apr. 3, 2026

Jordan Ayala struck out seven and gave up one hit in four innings, setting him up to pitch against St. John Bosco on Tuesday in the Boras Classic.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 2, 2026

It houses the oldest telescope in the world still in its original setting.

From BBC • Apr. 1, 2026

And not just a setting; it’s a small village unto itself.

From "The Bletchley Riddle" by Ruta Sepetys and Steve Sheinkin

Related Words

• ambience
• backdrop
• context
• environment
• framework
• locale
• location
• site
• surroundings