mechanism

Meanings

1. 1
   noun

   A part of a machine or a set of moving parts that does a particular job.

   The locking mechanism on the door had jammed.

2. 2
   noun

   A system or process by which something is done or achieved.

   The treaty set up a mechanism for resolving disputes.

3. 3
   noun

   A natural process or structure that works like a machine.

   Scientists study the mechanism by which the brain stores memories.

Etymology tree Proto-Indo-European *megʰ-der.? Ancient Greek μηχᾰνή (mēkhănḗ)der. New Latin mechanismuslbor. English mechanism Learned borrowing from New Latin mechanismus, from Ancient Greek μηχανή (mēkhanḗ, “machine”).

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