mechanism
MEHK-uh-nih-zuhm
Mechanism (noun) means a system of moving parts that performs a function within a machine. Example: “The locking mechanism on the door was jammed.”
noun
1
A system of moving parts that performs a function within a machine.
"The locking mechanism on the door was jammed."
"The clock's tiny mechanism of gears and springs fascinated the boy."
"A broken mechanism inside the toaster meant the bread never popped up."
2
A process or system by which something happens or is achieved.
"The report proposed a new mechanism for resolving disputes."
"Sweating is the body's natural mechanism for cooling down."
"The school has a simple mechanism for pupils to raise concerns."
How to use mechanism
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishThe moving parts that make a machine work, or more broadly, any process that makes something happen.
Common pairings
defense mechanism
coping mechanism
trigger mechanism
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Word forms
- Plural
- mechanisms
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The locking _____ on the door was jammed.
Etymology
A learned borrowing from New Latin mechanismus, ultimately from Greek mēkhanḗ ("machine").
Related words
Rhymes for mechanism
humanism
veganism
organism
shamanism
hooliganism
microorganism
vegetarianism
republicanism
equestrianism
utilitarianism
authoritarianism
See all rhymes for mechanism →
Frequently asked questions
What does “mechanism” mean?
The word “mechanism” means a system of moving parts that performs a function within a machine. In plain terms, the moving parts that make a machine work, or more broadly, any process that makes something happen.
How do you pronounce “mechanism”?
“Mechanism” is pronounced MEHK-uh-nih-zuhm (/ˈmɛk.ə.nɪ.zəm/ in IPA).
How do you use “mechanism” in a sentence?
Here is “mechanism” used in a sentence: “The locking mechanism on the door was jammed.”
What part of speech is “mechanism”?
“Mechanism” is a noun.
Where does the word “mechanism” come from?
The word “mechanism” comes from New Latin. A learned borrowing from New Latin mechanismus, ultimately from Greek mēkhanḗ ("machine").
Is “mechanism” a common word?
“Mechanism” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the C1 level.
How many meanings does “mechanism” have?
“Mechanism” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a system of moving parts that performs a function within a machine.
What is the difference between "mechanism" and "machine"?
A machine is a complete device that does work, while a mechanism is the arrangement of moving parts inside it that carries out a particular function. A single machine may contain several mechanisms.
What is the difference between "mechanism" and "process"?
A process is a series of steps or actions leading to a result, while a mechanism, in its abstract sense, is the underlying system or means by which that result is brought about. The mechanism explains how something works, whereas the process describes the sequence.
What is the difference between "mechanism" and "system"?
A system is a broad set of interconnected parts working together, while a mechanism is usually a more specific arrangement or means that produces a particular effect. A mechanism can be one working part within a larger system.
What are common collocations with "mechanism"?
Common phrases include "coping mechanism," "defence mechanism," "locking mechanism," "market mechanism," and "trigger mechanism." These draw on both the physical and the abstract senses of the word.
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