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

Süel and his colleagues focused on physiological mechanisms related to ribosomes, the micro machines within cells that play a key role in synthesizing proteins and translating genetic codes.

From Science Daily

"We were able to isolate the synaptic mechanisms that drove this and also show that this same phenomenon can be manipulated or blocked by using systemically available drugs."

From Science Daily

In an international study led by Goethe University, researchers have now identified a mechanism that interferes with the splicing process in a more subtle way.

From Science Daily

After years of investigating the diseases' underlying mechanisms, the research team has identified an existing FDA-approved drug that could significantly improve quality of life for affected patients and their families.

From Science Daily

Financing mechanisms created in the treaty could drive much-needed investment into waste management and recycling infrastructure in these regions to reduce plastic pollution -- thus helping to solve a major global environmental justice issue.

From Science Daily

Related Words

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