Definition of: scheme

(skēm) noun
1. A plan of something to be done; a plot or device for the accomplishment of an object.
2. A combination of various things according to a general plan or design; systematic arrangement.
3. A formal plan or arrangement, or a statement of such a plan; also, a table or schedule.
4. An outline drawing or sketch; diagram.
5. In astrology, a plan representing the aspects of the heavenly bodies at any given time. See synonyms under DESIGN, HYPOTHESIS, PLAN, PROJECT.
—v. schemed, schem·ing v.t.
1. To make a scheme for; devise; plan.
2. To plan or plot in an underhand manner.
—v.i.
3. To make schemes; plan or plot; connive. [<L schema a shape, figure of speech <Gk. schēma, -atos a form, plan]
—sche·mat·ic (skē·mat′ik) or ·i·cal adjective
—sche·mat′i·cal·ly adverb
—schem′er noun
—schem′ing adjective