layout

The word “layout” means the way parts of something are arranged or positioned. In plain terms, how the parts of a space, page, or design are arranged.

“Layout” is pronounced LAY-owt (/ˈleɪ.aʊt/ in IPA).

Here is “layout” used in a sentence: “The new office layout puts the meeting rooms near reception.”

“Layout” is a noun.

“Layout” is a fairly common word in modern English.

Use the one-word noun "layout" for the way parts of something are arranged: "the layout of the office". Use the two-word phrasal verb "lay out" for the action: "we need to lay out the office differently". A simple test: if you can put "the" or "a" in front of it, you want "layout".

Layout is one part of design: it refers specifically to how parts are arranged or positioned on a page, screen, or space. Design is broader, covering colour, typography, materials, and overall concept as well as arrangement. A document can have a good layout but weak design overall, or the reverse.

Layout is the spatial arrangement of elements, meaning where things sit on the page or screen. Format is the overall specification something follows, such as its size, structure, or file type: A4 format, PDF format, interview format. The format often constrains the layout, but the two words are not interchangeable.

The plural is "layouts": "we compared three layouts before choosing one". Because layout is an ordinary countable noun, no apostrophe is used in the plural.