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

The allegations centre on claims Jalal had illegally accessed a computer owned by an engineering business and tricked Hearts into paying him money owed to the company.

From BBC

Given engineering challenges SpaceX is facing, can it meet the mission deadlines?

From Los Angeles Times

I started engineering - too ambitious because I was already playing football.

From BBC

The engineering giant said the losses, in its mobility division in Germany which provides vehicle parts and software, came as a result of a stagnated market and pressure from rival companies.

From BBC

Prof Wallace chose it automatically because certain strains of E. coli that aren't pathogenic are used extensively in biotechnology and engineering biology laboratories to test whether something might work.

From BBC

Related Words

• architecture 
• design 
• metallurgy 
• planning