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Architecture vocabulary · Drawings and Representation

CAD

Meaning in architecture, with examples

/kæd/abbreviationCore term

In architecture, CAD means: Short for computer-aided design: software used to produce precise two-dimensional drawings and three-dimensional models instead of drawing by hand.

In Turkish: bilgisayar destekli tasarım, bilgisayar destekli çizim

How it is used

Said as one word. Architects work in CAD, export CAD files (often DWG) and ask consultants for 'the CAD'. AutoCAD is the best-known program; many offices now use BIM software, but CAD files are still exchanged every day.

Example sentences

  1. Could you send me the CAD files of the existing building?

  2. She drew the first plans by hand and then redrew them in CAD.

Common collocations

  • CAD file
  • CAD drawing
  • work in CAD
  • CAD software
  • CAD technician
  • BIMShort for building information modelling: designing with a shared 3D model in which each element, such as a wall or window, carries data like material, size and cost.
  • floor planA drawing that shows a building from above as if it were cut horizontally about a metre above the floor, showing walls, doors, windows and rooms.
  • working drawingsThe detailed, fully dimensioned set of drawings that a contractor uses to build a project, including plans, sections, elevations, details and schedules.
  • dimensionTo add measurements to a drawing, showing the lengths, widths and heights of walls, openings and spaces with dimension lines and numbers.

This word in other fields

The same English word can have a different meaning in another field:

More terms: Drawings and Representation

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