machinery

[ muh-shee-nuh-ree ]

noun

, plural ma·chin·er·ies.

1. an assemblage of machines or mechanical apparatuses:

   the machinery of a factory.

2. the parts of a machine, collectively:

   the machinery of a watch.

3. a group of people or a system by which action is maintained or by which some result is obtained:

   the machinery of government.

   Synonyms: setup, structure, organization

4. a group of contrivances for producing stage effects.
5. the group or aggregate of literary machines, especially those of supernatural agency epic machinery in an epic poem.

machinery

/ məˈʃiːnərɪ /

noun

1. machines, machine parts, or machine systems collectively
2. a particular machine system or set of machines
3. a system similar to a machine

   the machinery of government

4. literary devices used for effect in epic poetry

Other Words From

• anti·ma·chiner·y adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of machinery¹

First recorded in 1680–90; machine + -ery

Example Sentences

With the vast machinery of the Justice Department at his disposal, Gaetz could create a living hell for everyone against whom Trump holds a grudge, subjecting them to arrest and pretrial detention, even if the bogus charges later fizzle out in the court.

From Slate

Mining is a dangerous occupation: heavy machinery can be unpredictably operated by people who can also become fatigued.

From BBC

Or are we on the precipice of failing ourselves by reelecting this guy, despite the hard work of decent, well-meaning public officials and line attorneys who manage the complex, grinding machinery of American law?

From Slate

Paco Polit, a journalist in Valencia, told the BBC the new troops will bring in much needed heavy machinery, bulldozers, trucks, and help to improve the speed and organisation of the rescue efforts.

From BBC

Around 80 rescuers from all over the country were involved in the search, using heavy machinery.

From BBC

Related Words

• apparatus
• appliance
• engine
• equipment
• gear
• instrument
• motor
• system
• tool
• utensil
• vehicle