machinery

noun

ma·​chin·​ery mə-ˈshē-nə-rē 

-ˈshēn-rē

plural machineries

1

a

: machines in general or as a functioning unit

b

: the working parts of a machine

2

: the means or system by which something is kept in action or a desired result is obtained

the machinery of government

Synonyms of machinery

• instrumentality
• vehicle
• instrument
• means
• agent
• mechanism
• organ

Examples of machinery in a Sentence

Some of the mill's machinery was damaged in the fire.

a piece of farm machinery

Something was clogging the machinery.

The United Nations has set up machinery for mediation.

Recent Examples on the Web

The CreateMe platform allows for adaptability and small batch runs, since the system adjusts production parameters through a CAD file rather than making physical machinery changes like a conventional factory, creating opportunities for responsive replenishment. —Sarah Jones, Sourcing Journal, 19 Feb. 2026

Culturally, this feels less like machinery and more like ecology. —Nathanael Bondu, Rolling Stone, 19 Feb. 2026

Other studies found that overcrowding could be equally disastrous, causing the chemical machinery of life to freeze up. —Quanta Magazine, 18 Feb. 2026

Owners claim there were no employees who were able to operate the machinery or open the utility holes where rainwater could flow through. —Chelsea Hylton, CBS News, 18 Feb. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1731, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Rhymes for machinery

• deanery
• greenery
• scenery
• turbomachinery

Kids Definition

machinery

noun

ma·​chin·​ery mə-ˈshēn-(ə-)rē 

plural machineries

1

: machines in general

2

: the working parts of a machine or instrument

3

: the organization or system by which something is done or carried on

machinery of government