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

Trump’s freeze on this pipeline could reshape the regulatory landscape. —Clyde Wayne Crews Jr., Forbes, 31 Dec. 2024

The incident also followed damage to two data cables in November and bombings of the Nord Stream gas pipelines in 2022. —Rebecca Rosman, NPR, 31 Dec. 2024

The prospect pipeline isn’t great and the cap situation is stuffed with long-term deals to mediocre players. —Sean McIndoe, The Athletic, 30 Dec. 2024

The incident followed damage to two data cables and the Nord Stream gas pipelines, both widely regarded as acts of sabotage. —George Monastiriakos, Newsweek, 30 Dec. 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