blueprint meaning: definition, etymology and quotations

blueprint

noun

/ˈbluːˌpɹɪnt/

Etymology From blue + print. Introduced by Sir John Herschel in 1842.

A type of paper-based reproduction process producing white-on-blue images by means of a photosensitive ferric compound, used primarily for technical and architecture's drawings, now largely replaced by other technologies.

A print produced with this process.

Architecture, Engineering, Natural sciences, Physical sciences Broadly A detailed technical drawing (now often in some electronically storable and transmissible form).

Broadly, Informal Any detailed plan, whether literal or figurative.

Ain't got no blueprint, just a purpose and a wrecking ball!2018, Jhariah Clare, “City of Ashes”, in The Great Tale of How I Ruined it All:
This demonstrated serious intent, and the result is a report that should be a blueprint for subsequent assessments when road schemes are being put forward.2020 December 2, Christian Wolmar, “Wales offers us a glimpse of an integrated transport strategy”, in Rail, page 56:

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As a member of Black Sabbath, he helped draft the blueprints for heavy metal, but in conversation, he was always humble about his contributions to music.2025 July 22, Kory Grow, “Ozzy Osbourne obituary: The Godfather of Heavy Metal who changed the world”, in Rolling Stone:

Synonyms: cyanotype, schematic, road map, action plan, layout

blueprint

verb

Etymology From blue + print. Introduced by Sir John Herschel in 1842.

To make a blueprint for.

The architect blueprinted the renovation plan once the client had signed off.

Figuratively To make a detailed operational plan for; to design or plan out.

They blueprinted every aspect of the first phase of the operation.

Derived terms: blueprintable

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