What does "schema" mean?
An outline or image universally applicable to a general conception, under which it is likely to be presented to the mind (for example, a body schema).
Schema
/ˈskiːmə/ noun
noun ·Common ·High school level
Meaning at a glance
- Primary sense: An outline or image universally applicable to a general conception, under which it is likely to be presented to the mind (for example, a body schema).
- Grammar: schema is listed as noun.
- Nearest alternatives: alphabet, anatomy concept, approach, arrangement.
- Useful contrasts: freeform data, lack of structure, random interpretation.
- Usage evidence: Make sure your submission is consistent with the project schema.
How to use "schema"
- Start with the primary definition, then check the part of speech before placing the word in a sentence.
- Compare nearby synonyms to make sure "schema" carries the exact meaning, tone, and strength you need.
- Use the example sentence as a context check. If your sentence uses the word differently, confirm that the grammar still fits.
Meaning check
- Does the word fit the sentence's grammar?
- Does it match the intended tone rather than only the dictionary definition?
- Would a simpler synonym be clearer for the reader?
- Is there enough surrounding context to prevent ambiguity?
Source and review context
This entry combines structured lexical data with WordToolSet review checks. Definitions, examples, synonyms, and usage notes may come from different source tables, so the page is designed to show evidence from more than one angle before you rely on "schema" in a final draft.
If a word has several senses, prefer the sense that matches your sentence's grammar and surrounding context. A correct definition can still be the wrong choice when the sentence needs a different register, emphasis, or level of specificity.
Before you rely on this definition
Read the first definition as a starting point, then check the example, synonyms, and part of speech before treating "schema" as the right word for your sentence.
If your draft is formal, technical, persuasive, or sensitive, compare "schema" with a nearby alternative so the final choice matches both meaning and reader expectation.
Compare nearby meanings
- Use synonyms when you need a softer, stronger, simpler, or more specific word.
- Use antonyms to check the boundary of the meaning and avoid accidental contrast.
- Use the example sentence to confirm the word behaves naturally in context.
- Keep the original wording when a replacement adds complexity without improving precision.
Definition decision workflow
1. Identify the role
Check whether "schema" is acting as noun in your sentence. A definition is only useful when the grammar matches the way the word is being used.
2. Test the nearest option
Compare it with "alphabet" and other nearby choices to see whether the sentence needs a softer, stronger, or more familiar word.
3. Confirm with context
Use the example sentence below as an evidence check, then read your own sentence out loud to catch tone or rhythm problems.
Review note: Definition pages are checked for source coverage, sentence evidence, synonym support, and editorial insight before they are treated as approval-ready pages. If the evidence is too thin, the page remains available to users but is kept out of the approval-facing indexed inventory.
Final meaning check
Before publishing a sentence with "schema", ask whether the word helps the reader understand the idea faster. A precise word should reduce confusion, not simply make the sentence look more polished.
When the definition, synonym evidence, and example context point in the same direction, the word is usually a safer choice. When they conflict, revise the sentence or choose a clearer alternative.
Definitions
Noun
- 1 An outline or image universally applicable to a general conception, under which it is likely to be presented to the mind (for example, a body schema).
- 2 a schematic or preliminary plan wordnet
- 3 A formal description of the structure of a database: the names of the tables, the names of the columns of each table, and the data type and other attributes of each column.
"The database schema defines how the tables are organized."
- 4 an internal representation of the world; an organization of concepts and actions that can be revised by new information about the world wordnet
- 5 A formal description of data, data types, and data file structures, such as XML schemas for XML files.
Show 2 more definitions
- 6 A formula in the metalanguage of an axiomatic system, in which one or more schematic variables appear, which stand for any term or subformula of the system, which may or may not be required to satisfy certain conditions.
- 7 A monastic habit in the Greek Orthodox Church.
Synonyms
All synonymsAntonyms
freeform datalack of structurerandom interpretationunconstrained data
Example
"Make sure your submission is consistent with the project schema."
Common questions
What is a synonym for "schema"?
Common synonyms include: alphabet, anatomy concept, approach, arrangement, art, attack.
How do you use "schema" in a sentence?
Make sure your submission is consistent with the project schema.
How do you pronounce "schema"?
Pronounced /ˈskiːmə/.
Etymology
Unadapted borrowing from Latin schēma, from Ancient Greek σχῆμα (skhêma, “form, shape”). Doublet of scheme.