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

Harris, a pediatric neurologist at Kennedy Krieger, is an expert on epigenetic machinery disorders, of which NCBRS is one. — Deepa Fernandes, STAT, 8 Oct. 2026

Drying the steam protects the machinery from early wear and keeps the turbine running at peak efficiency. — Aman Tripathi, Interesting Engineering, 8 Oct. 2026

The machinery manufacturer plans to demonstrate new systems for warp knitting, warp preparation and technical textiles across more than 5,000 square meters at its Textile Innovation Center and Product Innovation Center. — Alexandra Harrell, Footwear News, 8 Oct. 2026

In the United States, it is primarily allocated for off highway vehicles such as agricultural machinery and construction equipment. — CNBC, 7 Oct. 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