engineering

[en-juh-neer-ing]

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.

engineering

/ 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

engineering

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.

Other Word Forms

• nonengineering noun
• preengineering adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of engineering¹

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

Example Sentences

He studied mining engineering at Witwatersrand University in Johannesburg before deciding to switch to medicine, at Guy's Hospital in London.

Read more on BBC

But many others are interested in careers in medicine, science and engineering.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

The overall goal of sovereign AI is to build out a localized computing infrastructure and potentially possess domestic capabilities in everything from large language model development and chipmaking to cloud storage and engineering talent.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

He is considered a front-runner in part because Apple is a hardware company and he runs hardware engineering.

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Still, because of its climate, California has plenty of experience dealing with such extremes, said Jay Lund, professor emeritus of civil and environmental engineering at UC Davis.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• architecture 
• design 
• metallurgy 
• planning