pipeline

noun

pipe·​line ˈpīp-ˌlīn 

1

a

: a line of pipe with pumps, valves, and control devices for conveying liquids, gases, or finely divided solids

b

: pipe sense 2b

2

: a direct channel for information

3

: a process or channel of supply

an arms pipeline

4

: a state of development, preparation, or production

several projects in the pipeline

also : the system for such processes

a strong product pipeline

5

: a course of individual advancement or development especially to fill organizational needs

Synonyms of pipeline

• route
• conduit
• source
• outlet
• channel

Examples of pipeline in a Sentence

an equipment hauler serves as the columnist's pipeline for gossip about the rock band

the battle was ultimately lost because the enemy had destroyed our pipeline for resupply

Recent Examples on the Web

Recent teammates mostly function as an information pipeline, while older, non-overlapping alumni may be shaping how recruiters and HR assess candidates who share their team affiliation, rather than simply passing along a tip. — Mia Osmonbekov, Fortune, 1 Aug. 2026

It is nationally recognized for its top-tier pharmacy program, which graduates 20% of the nation’s Black pharmacists, as well as a business program (undergraduate and MBA) that’s been a pipeline to corporate jobs. — Asia Alexander, Forbes.com, 1 Aug. 2026

The 6-1 decision further clouds the future of the 73-year-old pipeline owned by Canadian energy transportation company Enbridge that carries petroleum from Superior, Wisconsin, to Sarnia, Ontario. — Jeffrey Collins, Chicago Tribune, 1 Aug. 2026

Talent pipelines, apprenticeships, employer partnerships, and career pathways should be built into economic development projects from the beginning, not added after investments are made. — Emma Pfohman, New York Daily News, 1 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1856, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing pipeline

• come down the pipeline
• in the pipeline
• the pipeline

Rhymes for pipeline

• alkaline
• andesine
• anodyne
• anticline
• arginine
• asinine
• benzidine
• borderline
• byzantine
• calamine
• caroline
• centerline

Kids Definition

pipeline

noun

pipe·​line ˈpī-ˌplīn 

1

: a line of pipe with pumps, valves, and control devices for carrying liquids, gases, or finely divided solids

2

: a direct channel for information or supplies