engineering

en·gi·neer·ing

noun \-ˈnir-iŋ\

: the work of designing and creating large structures (such as roads and bridges) or new products or systems by using scientific methods

: the control or direction of something (such as behavior)

Full Definition of ENGINEERING

1

:  the activities or function of an engineer

2

a :  the application of science and mathematics by which the properties of matter and the sources of energy in nature are made useful to people

b :  the design and manufacture of complex products <software engineering>

3

:  calculated manipulation or direction (as of behavior) <social engineering> — compare genetic engineering

Make someone's day! Try these
10 sophisticated compliments »

Examples of ENGINEERING

1. This control panel is a good example of smart engineering.

First Known Use of ENGINEERING

1720

Rhymes with ENGINEERING

fictioneering, mountaineering, power steering

engineering

noun    (Concise Encyclopedia)

Professional art of applying science to the optimum conversion of the resources of nature to the uses of humankind. Engineering is based principally on physics, chemistry, and mathematics and their extensions into materials science, solid and fluid mechanics, thermodynamics, transfer and rate processes, and systems analysis. A great body of special knowledge is associated with engineering; preparation for professional practice involves extensive training in the application of that knowledge. Engineers employ two types of natural resources, materials and energy. Materials acquire uses that reflect their properties: their strength, ease of fabrication, lightness, or durability; their ability to insulate or conduct; and their chemical, electrical, or acoustical properties. Important sources of energy include fossil fuels (coal, petroleum, gas), wind, sunlight, falling water, and nuclear fission. See also aerospace engineering, civil engineering, chemical engineering. genetic engineering, mechanical engineering, military engineering.