logistics

American  

[loh-jis-tiks, luh-] / loʊˈdʒɪs tɪks, lə- /

noun

(used with a singular or plural verb)

1. the branch of military science and operations dealing with the procurement, supply, and maintenance of equipment, with the movement, evacuation, and hospitalization of personnel, with the provision of facilities and services, and with related matters.

2. the planning, implementation, and coordination of the details of a business or other operation.

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logistics British  

/ lɒˈdʒɪstɪks, ˌlɒdʒɪˈstɪʃən /

noun

1. the science of the movement, supplying, and maintenance of military forces in the field

2. the management of materials flow through an organization, from raw materials through to finished goods

3. the detailed planning and organization of any large complex operation

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Other Word Forms

• logistician noun

Etymology

Origin of logistics

First recorded in 1875–80; from French logistique “quartermaster's work,” equivalent to log(er) “to lodge, be quartered (said of troops)” + -istique -istic; -ics

Example Sentences

“From a trading perspective, I think Venezuela headlines are real, but for the short term, they are mostly about where a few barrels go and how messy the logistics are,” he noted.

From MarketWatch

Solid growth from JD.com’s retail unit likely helped the business of its logistics arm in 4Q, they say.

From The Wall Street Journal

Jacobs, who also founded United Waste Systems —which was subsequently acquired by Waste Management—equipment leasing firm United Rentals and logistics company XPO, has made it no secret that he wants to make more acquisitions.

From Barron's

“Russia is trying to destroy all key elements of the export logistics chains,” said Serhiy Vovk, director of Ukraine’s Center for Transport Strategies.

From The Wall Street Journal

Air defense at the front line is essential, as Russian drones cause damage and losses to Ukrainian troops and logistics, he said.

From The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• coordination
• engineering
• planning
• strategy