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

Explanation

If you're good at engineering that means you're able to apply scientific or mathematical ideas to real-world projects like designing a bridge, building a radio tower, and of course, designing engines. Think of engineering as the field where science, math, and technology meet. If you like to understand how things work and like building new things even more, then consider going into engineering. The word comes, predictably enough, from the word engine. You wouldn't want a poet designing the engine of your airplane, would you? Me neither.

Example Sentences

Analyst Sam Teeger believes the ASX-listed auto-accessories supplier has underinvested in engineering and says any increased spending on this front is music to his ears.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 1, 2026

However, he warns clients in a note that it may take time for any increase in engineering investment to drive a meaningful lift in sales.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 1, 2026

The projects will build on France’s strategic advantages, including its advanced grid infrastructure, industrial land availability, engineering talent, and strong national commitment to artificial intelligence.

From Barron's • May 31, 2026

By integrating metasurface optics directly into the detector itself, the researchers demonstrate how advances in quantum physics and materials engineering can help unlock the full potential of terahertz technology.

From Science Daily • May 31, 2026

They told them it was a model of something called the Akosombo Dam—a national project and wonder of engineering that would turn the river, upstream of Akosombo, into a lake!

From "Flying Through Water" by Mamle Wolo

Related Words

• architecture
• design
• metallurgy
• planning