designation

noun

des·​ig·​na·​tion ˌde-zig-ˈnā-shən How to pronounce designation (audio)
1
: the act of indicating or identifying
the designation of a speech sound
2
: appointment to or selection for an office, post, or service
awaiting his next designation
3
: a distinguishing name, sign, or title
… the only star in Lynx with a Greek letter designationRichard Berry
approved the area's designation as a wildlife refuge
4
: the relation between a sign and the thing signified

Examples of designation in a Sentence

Though many people call her a liberal, it is not a designation she uses herself. we've never given the homemade gadget a proper designation
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Other City Council and tribal members said the present uses would continue under the historic designation. Phil Diehl, San Diego Union-Tribune, 31 Mar. 2025 The council voted 3-2 to begin the process of applying for the designation, which will take time for studies and other preparations before the city staff returns to the council with results for approval. Phil Diehl, San Diego Union-Tribune, 31 Mar. 2025 Most of the speakers were employees, clients and volunteers at the park’s equestrian center who fear the designation could curb the center’s therapeutic riding programs for people with disabilities. Phil Diehl, San Diego Union-Tribune, 31 Mar. 2025 On Wednesday, the US removed millions of dollars of bounties on three Taliban officials but kept their terrorist designations. Tara John, CNN Money, 29 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for designation

Word History

Etymology

see designate entry 2

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of designation was in the 14th century

Cite this Entry

“Designation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/designation. Accessed 19 Apr. 2025.

Kids Definition

designation

noun
des·​ig·​na·​tion ˌdez-ig-ˈnā-shən How to pronounce designation (audio)
1
: the act of indicating or identifying
2
: appointment to or selection for an office, post, or service
3
: a name, sign, or title that identifies something

More from Merriam-Webster on designation

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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