Definition of format

1. type or version of format used on the storage medium.
2. process of initializing or preparing a disk or form of computer data storage medium, by recording a special pattern of data over the medium's reactive surface, thereby allowing a computer operating system the ability to store and retrieve data.

In general: arrangement of data; method of presentation of data.
Computers: method of arranging information that is to be stored or displayed. Format can refer to: (1) how information is stored on a computer disk and (2) making the computer record a pattern of reference marks on a disk. A brand-new disk must always be formatted before it can be used. Formatting a used disk erases any information previously recorded on it. In fortran, the format statement specifies the form in which data items, especially numbers, are to be read or written.

any method of arranging information that is to be stored or displayed. The word format can therefore refer to many different things relating to computers. Four of its most common uses are as follows:

1. The format of a file (or of any storage medium) refers to the way the information is stored in it. See file format.
2. To format a disk or tape is to make the computer record a pattern of reference marks on it.A brand-new disk or tape must always be formatted before it can be used, unless it was formatted at the factory. Formatting a disk or tape erases any information previously recorded on it.
3. In FORTRAN, the FORMAT statement specifies the form in which data items, especially numbers, are to be read or written. See FORTRAN; printf.
4. In a spreadsheet, the format of a cell determines the appearance of the output (how many digits are displayed, whether there is a dollar sign, etc.).

Broadcast:

1. style or content of the material aired by a radio station, such as all news, country-western music, or rock-and-roll music; also called personality, Other common formats include classical music, easy-listening music, talk shows, general interest programs, or special interest broadcasts, such as religious or Spanish-language programs. The program format is part of the context in which an advertising message is received and affects how the message is perceived. See also communication.
2. style or content of a television program, such as a variety show, talk show, game show, situation comedy, police drama, and so forth. See also item 1 above.

1. general design of an original or printed image or of a completed print product, such as the arrangement of elements on a page or the size and shape of a book. See also composition; graphic design; layout.
2. page size expressed in terms of the number of pages per signature, usually in multiples of four.