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.

---

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

---

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.

---

Other Word Forms

• nonengineering noun
• preengineering adjective

Etymology

Origin of engineering

First recorded in 1710–20; engineer + -ing ¹

Example Sentences

A key engineering challenge: ensuring enough fresh air for tunnel workers now, and once diesel-fueled army trucks are running through it.

From The Wall Street Journal

He studied civil engineering at the National University but dropped out to start what would become one of the country's largest construction companies.

From Barron's

"The memory wall and the miniaturization wall form a deadly combination," said Robert M. Radway, assistant professor of electrical and systems engineering at the University of Pennsylvania and a co-author of the study.

From Science Daily

George had a degree in engineering and a Ph.D. in business, and he became an expert on global infrastructure projects.

From The Wall Street Journal

Parsons advanced 3.9% after the defense engineering company said it had signed a contract for the Missile Defense Agency Scalable Homeland Innovative Enterprise Layered Defense, with a ceiling of $151 billion.

From Barron's

Related Words

• architecture
• design
• metallurgy
• planning