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

• 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

Staying on the subject of sabotage, there was an attack on the Nord Stream 2 pipeline in 2022. —Simon Shuster, TIME, 13 July 2024

Yeah, a very fun pipeline from the Republican nominee in Florida for a Congressional district to becoming an American far-right activist. —Leah Feiger, WIRED, 11 July 2024

On July 5, Bad River Band Chairman Robert Blanchard sent a letter to Enbridge that proposed a new project to mitigate erosion that has pushed the Bad River within feet of the Line 5 pipeline. —Caitlin Looby, Journal Sentinel, 11 July 2024

The interconnect will also facilitate maintenance to the present pipeline. Nadesan: Ensuring that our water supply from CAP and other sources continues to be managed strategically. —Sam Kmack, The Arizona Republic, 9 July 2024

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

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