Definition of: structure

(struk′chər) noun
1. That which is constructed; a combination of related parts, as a building or machine.
2. Biol. The arrangement and functional union of parts, tissues, and organs of a plant or animal.
3. Geol. a The spatial arrangement of rock strata in a larger formation. b The gross physical characteristics of a rock.
4. Chem. The disposition of atoms within a molecule or of molecules in a compound.
5. The manner of construction or organization: the social structure of a primitive society.
6. Archaic The act of constructing.
—v.t. ·tured, ·tur·ing
1. To form into an organized structure; build.
2. To conceive as a structural whole; ideate: He structured the plan before proposing it. See synonyms under FRAME. [<F <L structura <structus, pp. of struere build]