mechanism

[ mek-uh-niz-uhm ]

noun

1. an assembly of moving parts performing a complete functional motion, often being part of a large machine; linkage.
2. the agency or means by which an effect is produced or a purpose is accomplished.
3. machinery or mechanical appliances in general.
4. the structure or arrangement of parts of a machine or similar device, or of anything analogous.
5. the mechanical part of something; any mechanical device:

   the mechanism of a clock.

6. routine methods or procedures; mechanics:

   the mechanism of government.

7. mechanical execution, as in painting or music; technique.
8. the theory that everything in the universe is produced by matter in motion; materialism. Compare dynamism ( def 1 ), vitalism ( def 1 ).
9. Philosophy.
   1. the view that all natural processes are explicable in terms of classical mechanics.
   2. the view that all biological processes may be described in physicochemical terms.
10. Psychoanalysis. the habitual operation and interaction of psychological forces within an individual that assist in interpreting or dealing with the physical or psychological environment.

mechanism

/ ˈmɛkəˌnɪzəm /

noun

1. a system or structure of moving parts that performs some function, esp in a machine
2. something resembling a machine in the arrangement and working of its parts

   the mechanism of the ear

3. any form of mechanical device or any part of such a device
4. a process or technique, esp of execution

   the mechanism of novel writing

5. philosophy
   1. the doctrine that human action can be explained in purely physical terms, whether mechanical or biological
   2. the explanation of phenomena in causal rather than teleological or essentialist terms
   3. the view that the task of science is to seek such explanations
   4. strict determinism Compare dynamism vitalism
6. psychoanal
   1. the ways in which psychological forces interact and operate
   2. a structure having an influence on the behaviour of a person, such as a defence mechanism

Other Words From

• mecha·nismic adjective
• anti·mechan·ism noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of mechanism¹

First recorded in 1655–65; from New Latin mēchanismus; Late Latin mēchanisma “contrivance,” from Greek mēchan(ḗ) machine + New Latin -ismus, Late Latin -isma -ism

Example Sentences

The researchers stress the importance of further studies, especially randomised controlled clinical trials, to better understand the mechanisms behind the findings.

From Science Daily

Although the underlying mechanisms are not fully understood, scientists think that some of the hallmarks of diabetes -- such as high blood sugar, insulin resistance, and inflammation -- may encourage the development of dementia in the brain.

From Science Daily

This collaborative study initiated by the University of Surrey identifies previously hidden mechanisms that contribute to both efficiency and stability losses and addresses these challenges, helping the scientific community to advance this technology.

From Science Daily

Despite this seemingly obvious connection between emotional regulation and breathing, previous studies had only thoroughly explored subconscious breathing mechanisms in the brainstem.

From Science Daily

Future studies will aim to explore these mechanisms further and establish safe exposure thresholds.

From Science Daily

Related Words

• agency
• operation
• procedure
• process
• system
• technique