Daily Word Box

Install Daily Word Box: tap Share, then Add to Home Screen.

Word

configuration

noun C1
UK /kənˌfɪɡ.əˈɹeɪ̯.ʃən/
US /kənˌfɪɡ.jəˈɹeɪ̯.ʃən/

Meanings

noun

the arrangement of parts, features, or elements in relation to each other

configuration: the arrangement of parts, features, or elements in relation to each other
noun

a set of settings that determines how a computer system, device, or software operates

configuration: a set of settings that determines how a computer system, device, or software operates

Definition

A configuration is the particular arrangement of parts or settings in a system.

A configuration is the way components are organized or positioned so that something works as intended. In technology, it often refers to the settings that control how software, a device, or a network operates. The same system can behave differently depending on its configuration.

Examples

  • Before the launch, the engineer double-checked the configuration of the sensors to prevent conflicting readings.
  • I saved a separate configuration for presentations so my notifications stay silent and the screen remains bright.
  • The team rejected the proposed configuration because it created a bottleneck at the main junction.
  • She changed the configuration of her development environment to match the project’s standards.
  • They documented the configuration carefully, knowing that a minor mismatch could derail the deployment.

Common mistake

Learners often confuse configuration (the arrangement or settings) with confirmation (verification) because the words look similar.