noun

ergonomics

ur-guh-NOM-iks

Ergonomics (noun) means the study of how equipment, furniture and workplaces should be designed so that people can use them comfortably, safely and efficiently. Example: “Poor ergonomics is behind most office back complaints.”

noun

The study of how equipment, furniture and workplaces should be designed so that people can use them comfortably, safely and efficiently.

"Poor ergonomics is behind most office back complaints."

"The company brought in a specialist to assess the ergonomics of the assembly line."

The way a particular object or space fits the person using it.

"The ergonomics of the new keyboard are a clear improvement."

"I liked the car's engine but not its ergonomics."

How to use ergonomics

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishDesigning things so they fit the human body and are comfortable to use.

Memory tip

The adjective is 'ergonomic' and the adverb 'ergonomically'; note the stress falls on the third syllable, NOM.

Trace the full origin ↓

Easily confused with

economics → anthropometrics human factors

Common pairings

office ergonomics poor ergonomics ergonomics assessment cockpit ergonomics

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Poor _____ is behind most office back complaints.

Etymology

Formed from Greek ergon ('work') plus nomos ('law'), on the pattern of 'economics'.

Origin: Greek

Synonyms

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human factors biotechnology of work

Rhymes for ergonomics

comics economics tokenomics

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Frequently asked questions

Is 'ergonomics' singular or plural?

When it names the field of study it takes a singular verb: 'Ergonomics is taught in the design school.' When it refers to the design qualities of a specific object, a plural verb is normal: 'The ergonomics of this chair are poor.'

What is the difference between ergonomics and human factors?

They cover the same ground and the terms are often used interchangeably. In practice 'ergonomics' leans towards physical fit, such as posture, reach and lifting, while 'human factors' leans towards cognitive fit, such as attention, error and interface design.

What makes a chair ergonomic?

Adjustable seat height so your feet rest flat, lumbar support that follows the curve of your lower back, adjustable armrests that let your shoulders drop, and a seat depth that leaves a gap behind the knees. No chair is ergonomic for everyone, which is why adjustability matters more than any single feature.

What is the meaning of ergonomics?

"ergonomics" (noun) means the study of how equipment, furniture and workplaces should be designed so that people can use them comfortably, safely and efficiently.