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

As with Frank Lloyd Wright, another creative genius, some of Gehry’s buildings have encountered engineering and maintenance challenges.

From The Wall Street Journal

There are currently more than 20 T-Level subjects to choose from including accounting, craft and design, engineering and media production.

From BBC

The New York Times recently wrote about John Ternus, the company’s current head of hardware engineering, who’s reportedly one of the candidates being considered for the top post at Apple.

From MarketWatch

In the year 138, as Hadrian grew increasingly ill, he paid Marcus even greater honor by engineering a more consequential name change.

From The Wall Street Journal

The group hired a project-management firm to advise on major decisions and chose a construction strategy called “design build,” which combines architectural planning, engineering and construction into an umbrella contract.

From The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• architecture
• design
• metallurgy
• planning