machinery

noun

ma·​chin·​ery mə-ˈshē-nə-rē 

-ˈshēn-rē

plural machineries

1

a

: machines in general or as a functioning unit

b

: the working parts of a machine

2

: the means or system by which something is kept in action or a desired result is obtained

the machinery of government

Synonyms of machinery

• instrumentality
• vehicle
• instrument
• means
• agent
• mechanism
• organ

Examples of machinery in a Sentence

Some of the mill's machinery was damaged in the fire.

a piece of farm machinery

Something was clogging the machinery.

The United Nations has set up machinery for mediation.

Recent Examples on the Web

In another, a solitary figure stands in uneasy contrast to heavy machinery. — Erin Parish, Miami Herald, 1 Oct. 2026

Phoenix also holds stakes in at least eight other companies providing equipment for the Israeli military ranging from drones to warships to demolition machinery, CNN found. — Allegra Goodwin, CNN Money, 1 Oct. 2026

In Ford’s newer manufacturing operations, skilled-trades workers may maintain large robotic casting systems, configure digital manufacturing processes, or troubleshoot machinery used in battery production. — Nick Lichtenberg, Fortune, 30 Sep. 2026

The line was inaugurated in May 2024 with machinery supplied by Rieter. — Alexandra Harrell, Footwear News, 30 Sep. 2026

Word History

Etymology

machine entry 1 + -ery

First Known Use

1731, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Rhymes for machinery

• deanery
• greenery
• scenery
• turbomachinery

Kids Definition

machinery

noun

ma·​chin·​ery mə-ˈshēn-(ə-)rē 

plural machineries

1

: machines in general

2

: the working parts of a machine or instrument

3

: the organization or system by which something is done or carried on

machinery of government