pipeline

noun

pipe·​line ˈpīp-ˌlīn 

1

a

: a line of pipe with pumps, valves, and control devices for conveying liquids, gases, or finely divided solids

b

: pipe sense 2b

2

: a direct channel for information

3

: a process or channel of supply

an arms pipeline

4

: a state of development, preparation, or production

several projects in the pipeline

also : the system for such processes

a strong product pipeline

5

: a course of individual advancement or development especially to fill organizational needs

Synonyms

• channel

Examples of pipeline in a Sentence

an equipment hauler serves as the columnist's pipeline for gossip about the rock band

the battle was ultimately lost because the enemy had destroyed our pipeline for resupply

Recent Examples on the Web

This policy can help expand talent pipelines from college to business, and ultimately increase diversity in the fashion industry. —Arthur Zaczkiewicz, WWD, 2 July 2024

Sure enough, methane was seeping out of the ground, likely from a pipeline leak. —Noah Haggerty, Los Angeles Times, 2 July 2024

The documentary, which came out earlier this year, chronicles the Bad River Band’s long history of activism and resistance in the context of its legal battles with Enbridge Energy over the Line 5 oil pipeline. —Caitlin Looby, Journal Sentinel, 2 July 2024

The stories-to-solutions pipeline isn’t limited to the first lady’s experience in the classroom. —Maya Singer, Vogue, 1 July 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1856, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing pipeline

• come down the pipeline
• in the pipeline
• the pipeline

Kids Definition

pipeline

noun

pipe·​line ˈpī-ˌplīn 

1

: a line of pipe with pumps, valves, and control devices for carrying liquids, gases, or finely divided solids

2

: a direct channel for information or supplies