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

By deepening our understanding of how stem cell machinery evolved, scientists may identify new ways to optimise stem cell therapies and improve cell reprogramming techniques for treating diseases or repairing damaged tissue.

From Science Daily

Cranes and other heavy machinery were later brought in to help.

From BBC

When Trump and his crew take the reins again, I expect the machinery of power to run on revenge, to silence those who dissent, to remake this place in a darker image.

From Salon

The order, Justice Mathur adds, is a "strong message for state machinery to not align with political bosses but to act in accordance with law".

From BBC

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

From BBC

Related Words

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