1
: a regularly interacting or interdependent group of items forming a unified whole
a number system
: such as
a(1)
: a group of interacting bodies under the influence of related forces
a gravitational system
(2)
: an assemblage of substances that is in or tends to equilibrium
a thermodynamic system
b(1)
: a group of body organs that together perform one or more vital functions
the digestive system
(2)
: the body considered as a functional unit
c
: a group of related natural objects or forces
a river system
d
: a group of devices or artificial objects or an organization forming a network especially for distributing something or serving a common purpose
a telephone system
a heating system
a highway system
a computer system
e
: a major division of rocks usually larger than a series and including all formed during a period or era
f
: a form of social, economic, or political organization or practice
the capitalist system
2
: an organized set of doctrines, ideas, or principles usually intended to explain the arrangement or working of a systematic whole
the Newtonian system of mechanics
3
a
: an organized or established procedure
the touch system of typing
b
: a manner of classifying, symbolizing, or schematizing
a taxonomic system
the decimal system
4
: harmonious arrangement or pattern : order
… bring system out of confusion.—Ellen Glasgow
5
: an organized society or social situation regarded as stultifying or oppressive : establishment sense 2
—usually used with the
Cite this Entry
“System.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/system. Accessed 22 Sep. 2026.
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