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

“We’ve become a little bit of a detective agency,” said Andrea Moore, a director of access construction and engineering at AT&T.

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When not at sea, most American sailors relax or hold landside second jobs that tap their knowledge of machinery and engineering.

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"This makes it clear that Floquet engineering actually works in these systems -- and the potential of this discovery is huge."

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Teams including sales, legal and engineering have created more than 1,600 custom chatbots to aid with basic tasks, from prepping sales calls to knowing what questions to ask when creating contracts for clients.

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The Victorians sparked the modern obsession with engineering “lots of different looking dogs to fit different human wants,” said Dr. Rowena Packer, senior lecturer at the University of London’s Royal Veterinary College.

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Related Words

• architecture 
• design 
• metallurgy 
• planning