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

Managing heat from a data center built on permafrost requires specialized engineering.

From The Wall Street Journal

The fund holds a concentrated portfolio of 28 stocks of dividend-paying companies, including electric utilities, energy producers and pipeline operators, real-estate investment trusts, construction and engineering companies and telecommunications providers.

From MarketWatch

Downstream engineering, procurement, construction and commissioning activities are expected to stay resilient, supported by recently secured projects, she adds.

From The Wall Street Journal

Siemens has a Plano, Tex.-based subsidiary that makes software for industrial and engineering applications.

From MarketWatch

"In particular, industries that are important for Germany -- automotive and mechanical engineering -- are feeling this," he told AFP.

From Barron's

Related Words

• architecture
• design
• metallurgy
• planning