engineering

noun

en·​gi·​neer·​ing ˌen-jə-ˈnir-iŋ 

1

: the activities or function of an engineer

2

a

: the application of science and mathematics by which the properties of matter and the sources of energy in nature are made useful to people

b

: the design and manufacture of complex products

software engineering

3

: calculated manipulation or direction (as of behavior)

social engineering

compare genetic engineering

Examples of engineering in a Sentence

This control panel is a good example of smart engineering.

Recent Examples on the Web

The Resonator Awards, honoring women in music production and engineering, was postponed until further notice. —Michael Gfoeller and David H. Rundell, Newsweek, 15 Jan. 2025

The destruction wrought by the Palisades, Eaton and other Los Angeles fires has left the significant physical challenge of rebuilding, with many unanswered engineering and environmental questions. —Steven Zeitchik, The Hollywood Reporter, 15 Jan. 2025

Despite having a few components to consider (the drone, the remote, and the smartphone app), the engineering and integration are well executed. —PCMAG, 14 Jan. 2025

Audio visual technician Most common skills: live events, audio engineering and stage lighting Top location hiring: Greater Sydney Area Median years of prior experience: 3.3 12. —Ernestine Siu, CNBC, 13 Jan. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1697, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing engineering

• biomedical engineering
• chemical engineering
• electrical engineering
• genetic engineering
• geotechnical engineering
• human engineering
• industrial engineering
• knowledge engineering
• mechanical engineering
• social engineering
• traffic engineering

Kids Definition

engineering

noun

en·​gi·​neer·​ing ˌen-jə-ˈni(ə)r-iŋ 

: the science or profession of developing and using nature's power and resources in ways that are useful to people (as in designing and building roads, bridges, dams, or machines and in creating new products)