configure

verb

con·​fig·​ure kən-ˈfi-gyər 

 especially British  -ˈfi-gə

configured; configuring

transitive verb

: to set up for operation especially in a particular way

a fighter plane configured for the Malaysian air force

Examples of configure in a Sentence

The instructions tell you how to configure the kit correctly.

The plane is configured for military use.

Recent Examples on the Web

The Global 7500’s four living zones can be configured by each client, including a club suite, conference suite with dining options, and a principal suite, with a permanent bed and stand-up shower. —Daniel Cote, Robb Report, 19 Feb. 2025

The Red Sox still haven’t announced exactly how the infield will be configured now that the longtime third baseman is part of the equation. —Gabrielle Starr, Boston Herald, 16 Feb. 2025

The vacuum cleaner can also be easily configured into a handheld vacuum cleaner. —Terri Williams, Architectural Digest, 13 Feb. 2025

It might even, conceivably, be configured to act as a sealant – much like that used in military aircraft fuel tanks. —David Szondy, New Atlas, 11 Feb. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English configuren (as past participle configurid) "to model on, conform to," borrowed from Middle French & Latin; Middle French configurer "to compare, form," borrowed from Latin configūrāre "to mold, shape," from con- con- + figūrāre "to shape, form, make a likeness of" — more at figure entry 2

First Known Use

1677, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing configure

• pre-configure

Kids Definition

configure

verb

con·​fig·​ure kən-ˈfig-yər 

configured; configuring

: to set up for operation especially in a particular way

ships configured for observation