equipment

[ ih-kwip-muhnt ]

noun

1. anything kept, furnished, or provided for a specific purpose.

   Synonyms: accouterment, paraphernalia, apparatus

2. the act of equipping a person or thing.
3. the state of being equipped.
4. the personal knowledge and skill required for a task, occupation, etc.:

   He has the necessary equipment for law.

5. the rolling stock of a railroad.

equipment

/ ɪˈkwɪpmənt /

noun

1. an act or instance of equipping
2. the items so provided
3. a set of tools, devices, kit, etc, assembled for a specific purpose, such as a soldier's kit and weapons

Other Words From

• pree·quipment noun
• ree·quipment noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of equipment¹

First recorded in 1710–20; equip + -ment

Example Sentences

This is just one of innumerous examples of how synthetics are the wave of the future: anyone cyber-savvy enough can acquire the equipment and ingredients, which are easier to hide and can better withstand the local weather than a coca crop or a poppy plantation, effectively democratizing the drug trade away from Mafia-esque syndicates.

From Salon

A man suspected of being a significant supplier of small boats equipment to people smugglers has been arrested.

From BBC

Before the election, Labour also said it also planned to save £360m through more efficient purchasing of police equipment, which it promised to spend on extra community support officers.

From BBC

“I can remember someone standing in a room and canvas bags pilling up, which must have been his equipment to go to Korea, but I can’t see his face,” she says.

From BBC

At some point another craft might arrive, bringing a new crew or supplies of food, clothes, and equipment.

From BBC

Related Words

• apparatus
• furnishings
• furniture
• machinery
• material