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

However, they are often farmed and manufactured in the same fields and using the same machinery as wheat, making cross-contact with gluten extremely likely. —Sarah Bence, Verywell Health, 29 Nov. 2025

While chips and electronics now account for nearly three-quarters of exports, up from roughly half five years ago, traditional sectors such as metals, machinery, and plastics have seen little growth or outright decline. —John Liu, CNN Money, 28 Nov. 2025

Some used the money to buy new bales or machinery, or to help their family through that moment. —Bella Webb, Vogue, 27 Nov. 2025

The question is whether the post-arrival machinery can catch, clear, and keep checking. —Newsweek Editors, MSNBC Newsweek, 27 Nov. 2025

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