human-factors engineering

American  

[hyoo-muhn-fak-terz en-juh-neer-ing, yoo‐] / ˈhyu mənˌfæk tərz ˌɛn dʒəˈnɪər ɪŋ, ˈyu‑ /

noun

1. an applied science that coordinates the design of devices, systems, and physical working conditions with the capacities and requirements of the worker; ergonomics. HFE

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Etymology

Origin of human-factors engineering

An Americanism first recorded in 1930–35

Example Sentences

By virtue of its human-factors engineering and flight-control automation, the BlackFly can be mastered by almost anyone with a few days’ training, roughly comparable to the requirements for a driver’s license.

From The Wall Street Journal • Oct. 17, 2025