scheme

Definition

An artful deviation from the ordinary arrangement of words.

Etymology

From late Middle English scheame, from Medieval Latin schēma (“figure, form”), from Ancient Greek σχῆμα (skhêma, “form, shape”), from ἔχω (ékhō, “I hold”). Doublet of schema. Compare sketch.

Example Sentences

• "a blue case, from which was drawn a scheme of nativity"
• "The stoical scheme of supplying our wants by lopping off our desires, is like cutting off our feet when we want shoes."
• "A “moving platform” scheme[…]is more technologically ambitious than maglev trains even though it relies on conventional rails. Local trains would use side-by-side rails to roll alongside intercity trains and allow passengers to switch trains by stepping through docking bays. This set-up solves several problems […]."