pipeline

noun

pipe·​line ˈpīp-ˌlīn How to pronounce pipeline (audio)
1
a
: a line of pipe with pumps, valves, and control devices for conveying liquids, gases, or finely divided solids
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

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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Financing challenges, supply chain disruptions, an uncertain talent pipeline, and — critically — a widening shortfall of the uranium required to run nuclear power facilities all loom as issues for a sector seen as key to addressing electricity demand growth while weaning grids off fossil fuels. Prashant Rao, semafor.com, 9 Sep. 2025 MongoDB’s extensive feature set includes aggregation pipelines, change streams and sharding capabilities that require careful implementation to ensure true compatibility. Janakiram Msv, Forbes.com, 9 Sep. 2025 The company plans to use the new capital to scale and expand its IP portfolio and premium franchise pipeline. Caitlin Huston, HollywoodReporter, 9 Sep. 2025 Risinger added that Metsera's most advanced pipeline candidate is MET-079i, an injectable and monthly GLP-1 for obesity. Lisa Kailai Han, CNBC, 9 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for pipeline

Word History

First Known Use

1856, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of pipeline was in 1856

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Pipeline.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/pipeline. Accessed 10 Sep. 2025.

Kids Definition

pipeline

noun
pipe·​line ˈpī-ˌplīn How to pronounce pipeline (audio)
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

More from Merriam-Webster on pipeline

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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