coordination

noun

co·​or·​di·​na·​tion (ˌ)kō-ˌȯr-də-ˈnā-shən 

1

: the process of organizing people or groups so that they work together properly and well

2

: the harmonious functioning of parts for effective results

The game requires excellent hand-eye coordination.

Synonyms of coordination

• cooperation
• collaboration

Examples of coordination in a Sentence

The new agency will oversee the coordination of the various departments.

The manager is in charge of project coordination.

There needs to be better coordination between departments.

the coordination of our schedules

better coordination of the dancers' moves

Playing sports improves strength and coordination.

The illness causes a loss of coordination.

Recent Examples on the Web

The findings suggest that muscle-like coordination may emerge not solely from biochemical signaling, but also from the physical design and connectivity of the system itself. —Jijo Malayil, Interesting Engineering, 22 Mar. 2026

Those athletes, likely at least in part sensing a physical vulnerability, such as a lack of strength, coordination or control, tend to move differently, even with simple tasks like walking or running. —Ian McMahan, New York Times, 21 Mar. 2026

The Tijuana River Coalition, a group of more than 65 nonprofits and community organizations, issued a statement Friday calling on public agencies to improve coordination and build a faster, more accessible alert system. —Walker Armstrong, San Diego Union-Tribune, 21 Mar. 2026

These clinics would provide routine and preventive care, pain management, mental health services, genetic counseling and coordination of social support such as transportation, housing and nutrition for SCD patients in need. —Teanika D. Hoffman, Baltimore Sun, 21 Mar. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Late Latin coordination-, coordinatio, from Latin co- + ordination-, ordinatio arrangement, from ordinare to arrange — more at ordain

First Known Use

circa 1643, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing coordination

• coordination complex
• coordination number
• hand-eye coordination
• in coordination with

Rhymes for coordination

• abbreviation
• abomination
• acceleration
• accentuation
• accommodation
• accreditation
• acculturation
• accumulation
• acetylation
• adjudication
• administration
• adulteration

Kids Definition

coordination

noun

co·​or·​di·​na·​tion (ˌ)kō-ˌȯrd-ᵊn-ˈā-shən 

1

: the act of coordinating

2

: smooth working together (as of parts)

good muscular coordination

Medical Definition

coordination

noun

co·​or·​di·​na·​tion (ˌ)kō-ˌȯrd-ᵊn-ˈā-shən 

1

: the act or action of coordinating

2

: the harmonious functioning of parts (as muscle and nerves) for most effective results