technology

play

noun tech·nol·o·gy \ tek-ˈnä-lə-jē \

Definition of technology

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

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technologist

play \-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

Over the past two decades, Hong Kong’s neon industry has become a victim of changing tastes, new technologies and tighter regulations.

— kelvin chan, The Seattle Times, "New rules, tech are dimming Hong Kong’s signature neon glow," 30 Aug. 2017
In today’s world of car sales and service, technology is king.

— bill collins ford, The Courier-Journal, "A New Generation’s Automotive Experience," 30 Aug. 2017
Thank advancements in skin care technology: the facial involves 95-percent oxygen being shot into your skin to increase circulation and collagen production, and Union's selfie alone is making a good, hard sell.

— rachel nussbaum, Glamour, "Gabrielle Union Just Celebrated Her Freckled Skin With a No-Makeup Selfie," 30 Aug. 2017
Kickoff is 7:30 p.m. Special camera technology was used this year to accentuate the athleticism of the players, including showing Prescott’s passing form.

— david humphrey, star-telegram, "See Dak Prescott, Carrie Underwood in Sunday Night Football sneak preview," 30 Aug. 2017
View 26 Photos The new Cayenne is brimming with cutting-edge technology, although much of it, in typical Porsche fashion, will cost extra.

— jens meiners, Car and Driver, "2019 Porsche Cayenne Revealed: The Porsche of SUVs, Take Three," 30 Aug. 2017
McDonald's has inked a multiyear deal with French technology consulting company Capgemini Group to speed up its digital innovation and improve customer experience.

— samantha bomkamp, chicagotribune.com, "McDonald's signs deal with French tech firm to boost digital strategy," 28 Aug. 2017
So far, the technology seems more effective in blood cancers, such as leukemias and lymphomas.

— liz szabo, Kaiser Health News, "‘Breakthrough’ Leukemia Drug Also Portends ‘Quantum Leap’ In Cost," 23 Aug. 2017
Some experts applaud the new apps as a way technology can help women take control of their fertility.

— emily matchar, Smithsonian, "Apps Can Help You Get Pregnant. But Should You Use Them As a Contraceptive?," 22 Aug. 2017

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

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First Known Use: 1829

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TECHNOLOGY Defined for English Language Learners

technology

play

noun

Definition of technology for English Language Learners

: 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