system

Main Entry:: sys·tem
Pronunciation:: \ˈsis-təm\
Function:: noun
Etymology:: Late Latin systemat-, systema, from Greek systēmat-, systēma, from synistanai to combine, from syn- + histanai to cause to stand — more at stand
Date:: 1603

1: a regularly interacting or interdependent group of items forming a unified whole <a number system>: as a (1): a group of interacting bodies under the influence of related forces <a gravitational system> (2): an assemblage of substances that is in or tends to equilibrium <a thermodynamic system> b (1): a group of body organs that together perform one or more vital functions <the digestive system> (2): the body considered as a functional unit c: a group of related natural objects or forces <a river system> d: a group of devices or artificial objects or an organization forming a network especially for distributing something or serving a common purpose <a telephone system> <a heating system> <a highway system> <a computer system> e: a major division of rocks usually larger than a series and including all formed during a period or era f: a form of social, economic, or political organization or practice <the capitalist system> 2: an organized set of doctrines, ideas, or principles usually intended to explain the arrangement or working of a systematic whole <the Newtonian system of mechanics>3 a: an organized or established procedure <the touch system of typing> b: a manner of classifying, symbolizing, or schematizing <a taxonomic system> <the decimal system>4: harmonious arrangement or pattern : order <bring system out of confusion — Ellen Glasgow>5: an organized society or social situation regarded as stultifying or oppressive : establishment 2 —usually used with the

synonyms see method

— sys·tem·less

\-ləs\ adjective

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