mechanism

mechanism
mech|a|nis|m [ˈmekənızəm] n
1.) part of a machine or a set of parts that does a particular job
▪ the brake mechanism
▪ a clock mechanism
2.) a system that is intended to achieve something or deal with a problem
mechanism for (doing) sth
▪ existing mechanisms for decision making
mechanism to do sth
▪ The Army has set up mechanisms to help jobless ex-soldiers get work.
3.) a system or a way of behaving that helps a living thing to avoid or protect itself from something difficult or dangerous
defence/control/survival mechanism
▪ When a person is ill, the body's natural defence mechanisms come into operation.
4.) the way that something works
mechanism of
▪ the mechanism of the brain

Dictionary of contemporary English. 2013.

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  • Mechanism — Mech an*ism, n. [Cf. F. m[ e]canisme, L. mechanisma. See {Mechanic}.] 1. The arrangement or relation of the parts of a machine; the parts of a machine, taken collectively; the arrangement or relation of the parts of anything as adapted to produce …   The Collaborative International Dictionary of English

  • mechanism — [mek′ə niz΄əm] n. [ModL mechanismus < Gr mēchanē, MACHINE] 1. the working parts or arrangement of parts of a machine; works [the mechanism of a clock] 2. a) a system whose parts work together like those of a machine [the mechanism of the… …   English World dictionary

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  • mechanism — index appliance, contrivance, expedient, facility (instrumentality), forum (medium), instrument ( …   Law dictionary

  • mechanism — 1660s, from Mod.L. mechanismus, from Gk. mekhane machine, instrument (see MACHINE (Cf. machine) (n.)) …   Etymology dictionary

  • mechanism — *machine, machinery, apparatus, engine, motor …   New Dictionary of Synonyms

  • mechanism — ► NOUN 1) a piece of machinery. 2) the way in which something works or is brought about …   English terms dictionary

  • mechanism — noun 1 part of a machine ADJECTIVE ▪ firing, locking, steering, trigger, winding VERB + MECHANISM ▪ activate ▪ This ac …   Collocations dictionary

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