engineering

American  

[en-juh-neer-ing] / ˌɛn dʒəˈnɪər ɪŋ /

noun

1. the art or science of making practical application of the knowledge of pure sciences, as physics or chemistry, as in the construction of engines, bridges, buildings, mines, ships, and chemical plants.

2. the action, work, or profession of an engineer.

3. Digital Technology. the art or process of designing and programming computer systems.

   computer engineering;

   software engineering.

4. skillful or artful contrivance; maneuvering.

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engineering British  

/ ˌɛndʒɪˈnɪərɪŋ /

noun

1. the profession of applying scientific principles to the design, construction, and maintenance of engines, cars, machines, etc ( mechanical engineering ), buildings, bridges, roads, etc ( civil engineering ), electrical machines and communication systems ( electrical engineering ), chemical plant and machinery ( chemical engineering ), or aircraft ( aeronautical engineering ) See also military engineering

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engineering Scientific  

/ ĕn′jə-nîr′ĭng /

1. The application of science to practical uses such as the design of structures, machines, and systems. Engineering has many specialities such as civil engineering, chemical engineering, and mechanical engineering.

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Other Word Forms

• nonengineering noun
• preengineering adjective

Etymology

Origin of engineering

First recorded in 1710–20; engineer + -ing ¹

Example Sentences

Bass and other elected officials have not released a package of consulting reports on the recovery that were due to the city in mid-November from AECOM, the global engineering firm.

From Los Angeles Times

In Winston-Salem, it will expand the manufacturing of gas-turbine parts, and in Raleigh, it will add jobs that include engineering, sales and research.

From The Wall Street Journal

Significant engineering hurdles remain, but the researchers believe the potential benefits are substantial.

From Science Daily

He earned a Ph.D. in nuclear engineering in his native Spain during the 1980s and worked in the country’s nuclear-energy sector.

From The Wall Street Journal

Rail passengers are being urged to plan ahead this weekend as services on key routes will be disrupted due to planned engineering works affecting cross-border and Northern Ireland rail lines.

From BBC

Related Words

• architecture
• design
• metallurgy
• planning