technology

noun tech·nol·o·gy \ tek-ˈnä-lə-jē \

Updated on: 15 Apr 2018

plural technologies

1 a : the practical application of knowledge especially in a particular area : engineering 2

medical technology

b : a capability given by the practical application of knowledge

a car's fuel-saving technology

2 : a manner of accomplishing a task especially using technical processes, methods, or knowledge

new technologies for information storage

3 : the specialized aspects of a particular field of endeavor

educational technology

—

technologist

play \tek-ˈnä-lə-jist\ noun

See technology defined for English-language learners

See technology defined for kids

Examples of technology in a Sentence

One by one, the pieces take flight: a parachute, the stowed Martian balloon—a Montgolfiere hot-air type, named for the French brothers who pioneered the technology in 1782—and a sensor package with guidance system, radio transmitter, and video camera. —Joe Pappalardo, Air & Space, June/July 2006
There's no question the industry has been subjected to a great deal of competitive pressure over the past decade or so, with promises of more to come as the Internet and wireless technology transform the way Americans receive news and information. —Wall Street Journal, 14 Mar. 2006
The rapid shift in technology over the last 10 years has created an entirely new world in which viruses can replicate. While in 1989, viruses were primarily spread by "sneakernet," as users walked diskettes from machine to machine, modern viruses … are capable of spreading around the world in the blink of a digital eye. —Sarah Gordon, Information Security, November 1999
… all technology and energy revving up for the greatest clash of arms in history. —William Styron, This Quiet Dust And Other Writings, (1953) 1982
Recent advances in medical technology have saved countless lives.
The company is on the cutting edge of technology.
The government is developing innovative technologies to improve the safety of its soldiers.
How can we apply this new technology to our everyday lives?
The car has the latest in fuel-saving technology.

Recent Examples of technology from the Web

Liebhold contends that advancement in technology and a concomitant diffusion of industry also played a key role in the upsurge of free trade.

— ryan p. smith, Smithsonian, "A History of America’s Ever-Shifting Stance on Tariffs," 13 Apr. 2018
Chile has a shortage of workers in health care, technology and agriculture.

— The Economist, "Chile gives immigrants a wary welcome," 12 Apr. 2018
Soublet: Not all vehicle technology and testing conditions are the same.

— carolyn said, San Francisco Chronicle, "DMV officials: Self-driving car regulations will continue to evolve," 11 Apr. 2018
Donnie says their business mixes Signal 88's technology and national presence with personal attention to the customer.

— william thornton, AL.com, "Brothers' security firm named Signal 88 Franchisees of the Year," 11 Apr. 2018
Last week, Kentucky teachers marched to the Capitol to denounce the pension bill and demand funding for schools to help pay for textbooks, technology and programs.

— madison park, CNN, "Kentucky governor signs controversial pension bill as teachers call for rally," 11 Apr. 2018
Technological and lighting upgrades to the hotel’s meeting rooms, added seating at the hotel’s Bar Rojo with electrical outlets and wireless technology and a redone lobby were also part of the renovations.

— joshua fechter, San Antonio Express-News, "Before and after photos of the Grand Hyatt hotel’s $19 million makeover," 10 Apr. 2018
The plan currently is to assess the Building Department's technology and identify the best way to streamline those workflows, Cunningham said.

— emily k. coleman, Lake County News-Sun, "Waukegan's proposed budget keeps operating expenses flat but with $2 million deficit," 10 Apr. 2018
But rising prices also reflect added technology and improvements, which translates into bikes that are more comfortable, refined, and easier to ride.

— aaron gulley, Outside Online, "Why It's Worth Spending Big Bucks on a Bike," 10 Apr. 2018

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'technology.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Origin and Etymology of technology

Greek technologia systematic treatment of an art, from technē art, skill + -o- + -logia -logy

NEW! Time Traveler

First Known Use: 1829

in the meaning defined at sense 1a

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TECHNOLOGY Defined for English Language Learners

technology

noun

: the use of science in industry, engineering, etc., to invent useful things or to solve problems
: a machine, piece of equipment, method, etc., that is created by technology

TECHNOLOGY Defined for Kids

technology

noun tech·nol·o·gy \ tek-ˈnä-lə-jē \

plural technologies

1 : the use of science in solving problems (as in industry or engineering)

2 : a method of or machine for doing something that is created by technology

Medical Dictionary

technology

noun tech·nol·o·gy \ -jē \

plural technologies

1 : the science of the application of knowledge to practical purposes : applied science

2 : a scientific method of achieving a practical purpose

—

technological

play \ˌtek-nə-ˈläj-i-kəl\ also technologic play \-ik\ adjective

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