\Plan\, n. [F., fr. L. planus flat, level. See {Plain}, a.]
1. A draught or form; properly, a representation drawn on a
   plane, as a map or a chart; especially, a top view, as of
   a machine, or the representation or delineation of a
   horizontal section of anything, as of a building; a
   graphic representation; a diagram.

2. A scheme devised; a method of action or procedure
   expressed or described in language; a project; as, the
   plan of a constitution; the plan of an expedition.

         God's plans like lines pure and white unfold. --M.
                                               R. Smith.

3. A method; a way of procedure; a custom.

         The simple plan, That they should take who have the
         power, And they should keep who can.  --Wordsworth.

{Body plan}, {Floor plan}, etc. See under {Body}, {Floor},
   etc.

Syn: Scheme; draught; delineation; plot; sketch; project;
     design; contrivance; device. See {Scheme}.

\Plan\, v. t. [imp. & p. p. {Planned}; p. pr. & vb. n.
{Planning}.]
1. To form a delineation of; to draught; to represent, as by
   a diagram.

2. To scheme; to devise; to contrive; to form in design; as,
   to plan the conquest of a country.

         Even in penance, planning sins anew.  --Goldsmith.