1. Concept that focuses on the components or elements of a structure or system and unifies them into a coherent and functional whole, according to a particular approach in achieving the objective(s) under the given constraints or limitations.
Source: http://www.businessdictionary.com/definition/architectural-design.html
2. Two basic notions of architecture exist: a descriptive notion and a prescriptive notion. The descriptive notion says that architecture is about the structure of a system. The prescriptive notion says that architecture is about principles and guidelines. The descriptive notion is very important, but is already referred to as design and is very well covered on an abstract level by the notion of ontology. This leaves a definition of architecture which is prescriptive. By adopting this notion of architecture we follow Dietz and Hoogervorst [1] [8]. Dietz [1] defines architecture as:
Theoretically, architecture is the normative restriction of design freedom.
Practically, architecture is a consistent and coherent set of design principles.
Source: http://www.theenterprisearchitect.eu/archive/2007/05/15/architecture-a-definition
3. The art and science of designing and superintending the erection of buildings and similar structures. A style of building or structure. The structure or design of anything.
Source: http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/architecture (World English Dictionary)
