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

• 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

Trump this week announced new probes into personal protective equipment, medical items, robotics and industrial machinery. —Reuters, USA Today, 26 Sep. 2025

Its unmatched hardness makes tungsten carbide essential for drill bits, cutting tools, and mining machinery that endure heavy wear. —Atharva Gosavi, Interesting Engineering, 26 Sep. 2025

Here, the camera and sound crew make final adjustments to their highly specialized machinery that will capture my performance. —Sophie Ansari, Vulture, 25 Sep. 2025

Laser and water-cutting tools and machinery are also included. —Reuters 12 Hr Ago, CNN Money, 25 Sep. 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