innards

American  

[in-erdz] / ˈɪn ərdz /

noun

(used with a plural verb)

1. the internal parts of the body; entrails or viscera.

2. the internal mechanism, parts, structure, etc., of something; the interior of something.

   an engine's innards.

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innards British  

/ ˈɪnədz /

plural noun

1. the internal organs of the body, esp the viscera

2. the interior parts or components of anything, esp the working parts

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Etymology

Origin of innards

1815–25; variant of inwards ( def. ), noun use of inward

Example Sentences

The engine will spin like the innards of a kaleidoscope and embedded in the bike will be a small mini-game.

From Los Angeles Times

Step closer and you hear the contraption appearing to breathe, a tinkling sound like wind chimes emanating from the cooling mechanism that keeps its innards colder than outer space.

From Barron's

Its motorized innards were prone to skidding, seizing and unexplained work stoppages, causing the crew to occasionally handle the camera like a vending machine that had stolen their money.

From The Wall Street Journal

Even when a battery is made elsewhere, its innards include a significant Chinese contribution.

From The Wall Street Journal

Decades ago, watch repair shops across the country were staffed with technicians who could service almost any mechanical timepiece when its intricate innards — tiny gears, wheels and springs — failed.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• guts
• insides