ergonomics

[ur-guh-nom-iks]

noun

(used with a singular or plural verb)

1. the study of people's interaction with their work environment, especially when concerned with making that environment physically, mentally, and organizationally safe, comfortable, and efficient.

ergonomics

/ ɜːˈɡɒnəmɪst, ˌɜːɡəˈnɒmɪks /

noun

1. Also called: biotechnology. (functioning as singular) the study of the relationship between workers and their environment, esp the equipment they use

Grammar Note

See -ics.

Other Word Forms

• ergonomic adjective
• ergonometric adjective
• ergonomist noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of ergonomics¹

First recorded in 1945–50; ergo- ¹ + -nomics ( -nomy, -ics ) on the model of agronomics, bionomics, etc.

Word History and Origins

Origin of ergonomics¹

C20: from Greek ergon work + ( _eco ) _nomics

When To Use

What does ergonomics mean?

Ergonomics is the study of the relationship between people and their working environment, especially the equipment they use.The field of ergonomics typically involves designing devices around the physical capabilities and comfort of the user. Such products, like desk chairs or computer accessories, are often described or marketed as ergonomic, indicating that they have been designed to minimize physical effort and discomfort and maximize efficiency. The term ergonomics is also sometimes used to refer to something’s ergonomic qualities, as in Our latest model features improved ergonomics.Ergonomics is sometimes also called human engineering or biotechnology (though biotechnology is more commonly used in reference to the use of microorganisms in manufacturing or other industrial processes).Example: When designing the steering wheel we kept highly accessible ergonomics in mind.