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

That amount includes the more than 18,000 miles of natural gas pipelines and seven interstate supply connections, as well as maintaining them 24/7. —Doug Ross, Chicago Tribune, 25 Feb. 2026

Since then, the university has created workforce partnerships and a student transfer pipeline with Austin Community College as part of its commitment to serving Texas. —Lily Kepner, Austin American Statesman, 25 Feb. 2026

Tensions with Ukraine grew recently after Russian oil shipments to Hungary were interrupted; Ukraine blamed the disruption on a Russian drone strike in late January that damaged a pipeline. —Justin Spike, Los Angeles Times, 25 Feb. 2026

Pricing pressure, fierce competition, and pipeline setbacks have all hit the Danish drugmaker in recent months. —Elsa Ohlen, CNBC, 25 Feb. 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

• acridine
• alkaline
• andesine
• anodyne
• anticline
• arginine
• asinine
• atropine
• benzidine
• borderline
• byzantine
• calamine

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