supply chain

American  

[suh-plahy cheyn] / səˈplaɪ ˌtʃeɪn /

noun

1. the series of growers, manufacturers, distributors, shippers, etc., involved in producing goods of a particular kind and bringing them to market.

   A typical supply chain from fiber to garment has up to seven players spread across the globe—more, if processes like dyeing or printing are subcontracted.

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supply chain British  

noun

1. marketing a channel of distribution beginning with the supplier of materials or components, extending through a manufacturing process to the distributor and retailer, and ultimately to the consumer

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Etymology

Origin of supply chain

First recorded in 1900–05

Example Sentences

That raises a possibility that concerns some Western executives and policymakers: that Brazil could emerge as a rare-earth power without necessarily becoming part of a Western supply chain.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 9, 2026

That makes it harder to increase production of one type of missile without disrupting the supply chain for another in-demand weapon.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 9, 2026

Most analysts stress the economic backdrop now is different to that in 2022; inflation was already elevated before the outbreak of the Ukraine war, and the global economy was struggling with post-pandemic supply chain woes.

From Barron's • Jun. 8, 2026

"Legislation could cover operating system providers and others in the supply chain, such as retailers, and will not affect the use of devices owned and used by adults who verify their age," he said.

From BBC • Jun. 8, 2026

Infosys, he said, can hold a virtual meeting of the key players from its entire global supply chain for any project at any time on that supersize screen.

From "The World Is Flat" by Thomas L. Friedman