logistics

American  

[loh-jis-tiks, luh-] / loʊˈdʒɪs tɪks, lə- /

noun

(used with a singular or plural verb)

1. the branch of military science and operations dealing with the procurement, supply, and maintenance of equipment, with the movement, evacuation, and hospitalization of personnel, with the provision of facilities and services, and with related matters.

2. the planning, implementation, and coordination of the details of a business or other operation.

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logistics British  

/ lɒˈdʒɪstɪks, ˌlɒdʒɪˈstɪʃən /

noun

1. the science of the movement, supplying, and maintenance of military forces in the field

2. the management of materials flow through an organization, from raw materials through to finished goods

3. the detailed planning and organization of any large complex operation

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Other Word Forms

• logistician noun

Etymology

Origin of logistics

First recorded in 1875–80; from French logistique “quartermaster's work,” equivalent to log(er) “to lodge, be quartered (said of troops)” + -istique -istic; -ics

Example Sentences

Access, basing rights, overflight permissions, maintenance, refueling and logistics are the skeleton of military power.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 6, 2026

While digital tools have improved efficiency, they have also increased pressure on logistics and transport systems, especially those designed for just in time delivery.

From Science Daily • Apr. 5, 2026

This is where pharmaceutical logistics comes in -- a fast-growing sector in a world where key supply chains have been shaken by war, pandemic and trade chaos.

From Barron's • Apr. 5, 2026

Gabriel Martinez’s first job out of college in 2015 was in logistics and paid $50,000 a year.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 5, 2026

So now, Malcolm, logistics coordinator, and Zach, financial manager, organize their sleeping location every day, texting her each evening with the details.

From "A Heart in a Body in the World" by Deb Caletti

Related Words

• coordination
• engineering
• planning
• strategy