coordination

American  

[koh-awr-dn-ey-shuhn] / koʊˌɔr dnˈeɪ ʃən /

Or co-ordination

noun

1. the act or state of coordinating or of being coordinated.

2. proper order or relationship.

3. harmonious combination or interaction, as of functions or parts.

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coordination British  

/ kəʊˌɔːdɪˈneɪʃən /

noun

1. balanced and effective interaction of movement, actions, etc

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coordination Cultural  

1. The use of grammatical structures to give equal emphasis to, or to “coordinate,” two or more words, groups of words, or ideas: “I like eggs and toast.” In the following sentences, each clause receives equal emphasis: “Mr. Jones teaches French, and Ms. Williams teaches English”; “Mr. Jones teaches French, but Ms. Williams teaches English.” (Compare subordination.)

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Other Word Forms

• noncoordination noun

Etymology

Origin of coordination

First recorded in 1595–1605, coordination is from the Late Latin word coordinātiōn- (stem of coordinātiō ). See co-, ordination

Explanation

Coordination is the act of arranging, putting things in order, or making things run smoothly together. Fencing might seem like a breeze, but it actually takes the graceful coordination of your hands, eyes, feet and mind. Some people like to put a dash in co-ordination. But whatever way you spell it, coordination has to do with coordinating things — whether it's pulling all the elements together for a fabulous party or just getting your hands and eyes to work together during batting practice. If you're looking for more coordination in your life, try organizing your calendar, doing some yoga, or getting a personal assistant.

Example Sentences

The accord aims to prevent a repeat of the disjointed international response that surrounded the coronavirus crisis, by improving global coordination, surveillance and access to vaccines.

From Barron's • May 1, 2026

Barrera: “The practical work is implementation: Districts need clear guidance on their obligations, consistent coordination with the relevant athletic governance bodies, and a school climate where students can participate without being targeted.”

From Los Angeles Times • May 1, 2026

Although they appear spontaneous, there is a level of coordination and predictability to them.

From BBC • Apr. 28, 2026

House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries, who poured a lot of time, money, coordination, pressure, and campaigning into the outcome, was understandably gloating following the result.

From Slate • Apr. 25, 2026

Motor activity impaired; general reduction of glandular functioning; accelerated loss of coordination; and strong indications of progressive amnesia.

From "Flowers for Algernon" by Daniel Keyes

Related Words

• allocation
• allotment
• analysis
• arrangement
• designation
• distribution
• grade
• regulation