WordWeb Online

1. A hypothetical description of a complex entity or process
   "the computer program was based on a framework of the circulatory and respiratory systems";
   - model, theoretical account
    
2. The underlying structure
   "providing a factual framework for future research";
   - fabric
    
3. A structure supporting or containing something

Derived forms: frameworks

Type of: hypothesis, possibility, structure, supporting structure, theory

Encyclopedia: Framework