engineer 1 of 2

engineer

2 of 2

verb

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb engineer contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of engineer are guide, lead, pilot, and steer. While all these words mean "to direct in a course or show the way to be followed," engineer implies finding ways to avoid or overcome difficulties in achieving an end or carrying out a plan.

engineered his son's election to the governorship

When is it sensible to use guide instead of engineer?

While the synonyms guide and engineer are close in meaning, guide implies intimate knowledge of the way and of all its difficulties and dangers.

guided the scouts through the cave

When is lead a more appropriate choice than engineer?

The words lead and engineer are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, lead implies showing the way and often keeping those that follow under control and in order.

led his team to victory

In what contexts can pilot take the place of engineer?

While in some cases nearly identical to engineer, pilot suggests guidance over a dangerous or complicated course.

piloted the bill through the Senate

When can steer be used instead of engineer?

Although the words steer and engineer have much in common, steer implies an ability to keep to a course and stresses the capacity of maneuvering correctly.

steered the ship through a narrow channel

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of engineer
Noun
Banning under-18s from using the platform marks a dramatic policy change for the company, which was founded by Google engineers Daniel De Freitas and Noam Shazeer. Beatrice Nolan, Fortune, 29 Oct. 2025 Think of it as being a visual problem-solver who understands what engineers need, and which cameras, lenses and techniques will deliver. Suzanne Wright, USA Today, 29 Oct. 2025
Verb
But LeBron James, who famously battled Golden State in four consecutive NBA Finals in the 2010s and a decade ago engineered a comeback from down 3-1 in the 2016 Finals, will not share the floor with his longtime nemesis. Joseph Dycus, Mercury News, 20 Oct. 2025 Mater Dei engineered a long drive to open a 22-0 advantage. Dan Albano, Oc Register, 19 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for engineer
Recent Examples of Synonyms for engineer
Noun
  • In 1898, architect René Binet unveiled his design for the Porte Monumentale, a grand three-legged archway intended to serve as the entrance portal to the upcoming 1900 Paris Exposition.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 28 Oct. 2025
  • The residences were conceived by interior architect Hassen Balut.
    Abby Montanez, Robb Report, 28 Oct. 2025
Verb
  • Tatiana’s settlement with Carlos Pino and his family — negotiated through mediation led by Miami attorney Bruce Greer — followed another important step for her.
    Jay Weaver, Miami Herald, 23 Oct. 2025
  • Loan spells for Alan Montes and Santiago Muñoz have concluded and Sporting KC will continue to negotiate with Schewe and Muñoz.
    Daniel Sperry, Kansas City Star, 23 Oct. 2025
Verb
  • Because Atlas reads web pages, malicious websites can manipulate it by hiding instructions in their code – a technique called prompt injection.
    The AI Insider, Interesting Engineering, 27 Oct. 2025
  • Young’s ability to manipulate the pocket with his quickness and improvisational skills has helped keep the Panthers’ sack count low.
    Mike Kaye, Charlotte Observer, 27 Oct. 2025
Verb
  • There were also individual, isolated nests, which were typically larger than any that were arranged in a specific shape, according to the study.
    Ashley Strickland, CNN Money, 29 Oct. 2025
  • To make matters worse, none of the wedding flowers had been purchased or arranged.
    Ashlyn Robinette, PEOPLE, 29 Oct. 2025

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Engineer.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/engineer. Accessed 31 Oct. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on engineer

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!