noun Uncommon

clockwork

KLOK-wurk

Clockwork (noun) means a mechanism driven by a wound spring and gears, used in clocks, toys, and other devices. Example: “The old toy soldier marched thanks to a simple clockwork mechanism.”

noun

A mechanism driven by a wound spring and gears, used in clocks, toys, and other devices.

"The old toy soldier marched thanks to a simple clockwork mechanism."

adj

Very regular, precise, and predictable, like the working of a clock.

"The trains ran with clockwork precision."

How to Use Clockwork

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishThe gears that power a clock or wind-up toy, or (as an adjective) something extremely regular and predictable.

Common pairings

like clockwork clockwork precision clockwork toy

Word Forms

clockworks plural

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Fill the Gap

Can you complete this real example?

The old toy soldier marched thanks to a simple _____ mechanism.

Etymology

A compound of clock and work, referring to the internal gear mechanism of a clock.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does “clockwork” mean?

The word “clockwork” means a mechanism driven by a wound spring and gears, used in clocks, toys, and other devices. In plain terms, the gears that power a clock or wind-up toy, or (as an adjective) something extremely regular and predictable.

How do you pronounce “clockwork”?

“Clockwork” is pronounced KLOK-wurk (/ˈklɑkwɝk/ in IPA).

How do you use “clockwork” in a sentence?

Here is “clockwork” used in a sentence: “The old toy soldier marched thanks to a simple clockwork mechanism.”

What part of speech is “clockwork”?

Depending on how it is used, “clockwork” can be a noun and an adjective.

Is “clockwork” a common word?

“Clockwork” is an uncommon word in modern English.

How many meanings does “clockwork” have?

“Clockwork” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a mechanism driven by a wound spring and gears, used in clocks, toys, and other devices.