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

And a globe-spanning supply chain for fuel often requires weeks before changes in financial markets translate to sustained price decreases at gas stations.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 8, 2026

US figures last week showed growth in the country's services activity cooled last month as companies monitored the higher energy prices and braced for supply chain disruptions.

From Barron's • Apr. 7, 2026

With its enormous sales and support staff, developed supply chain, and strong balance sheet, Dell stands to benefit the most.

From Barron's • Apr. 6, 2026

The K-shaped economy just widened: AI is deflating its own supply chain.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 6, 2026

They set up camps all along the west coast of Greece to create a supply chain heading south.

From "Sterling Biographies®: Cleopatra: Egypt's Last and Greatest Queen" by Susan Blackaby