Main Entry:

ap·pa·ra·tus

Pronunciation:

\ˌa-pə-ˈra-təs, -ˈrā-\

Function:

noun

Inflected Form(s):

plural ap·pa·ra·tus·es or ap·pa·ra·tus

Etymology:

Latin, from apparare to prepare, from ad- + parare to prepare — more at pare

Date:

circa 1628

1 a: a set of materials or equipment designed for a particular use b: a group of anatomical or cytological parts functioning together <mitotic apparatus> c: an instrument or appliance designed for a specific operation2: the functional processes by means of which a systematized activity is carried out <the apparatus of society>: as a: the machinery of government b: the organization of a political party or an underground movement