engineer 1 of 2

engineer

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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
The audio engineer was Jimmy Keeley. Hannah Chinn, NPR, 22 Oct. 2025 Following Meta’s massive investment in Scale AI, Zuckerberg unveiled a new unit called Meta Superintelligence Labs that’s made up of top AI researchers and engineers. Ashley Capoot, CNBC, 22 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
  • Bellavance-Lecompte is a design curator and architect who also founded the Carwan Gallery in Beirut in 2011, and stands as a significant figure in the global art and design scene, forging cross-cultural dialogue within the design community.
    Sofia Celeste, Footwear News, 21 Oct. 2025
  • Wright, who was born in Wisconsin in 1867, died at age 91 in 1959 as one of the world’s most famous architects, having designed more than 1,000 buildings.
    Eric Adler, Kansas City Star, 21 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, McIlroy was seen posing for photos with several of his trophies arranged on the basalt rocks, paying tribute to a season that many consider his most meaningful of all time.
    Devlina Sarkar, MSNBC Newsweek, 22 Oct. 2025
  • Victoria Goodwin was sentenced to prison in May for arranging the plot with a Florida inmate.
    Ryan Coleman, Entertainment Weekly, 22 Oct. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Engineer.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/engineer. Accessed 29 Oct. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on engineer

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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