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Definition of mechanism noun from the Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary

mechanism

noun
 
/ˈmekənɪzəm/
 
/ˈmekənɪzəm/
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  1. a set of moving parts in a machine that performs a task
    • a delicate watch mechanism
    • The mechanism for locking the door of the washing machine is childproof.
    • The gun froze, jamming the mechanism.
    Topics Engineeringb2
    Oxford Collocations Dictionaryadjective
    • firing
    • locking
    • steering
    verb + mechanism
    • activate
    • jam
    mechanism + verb
    • operate
    • work
    See full entry
  2. a method or a system for achieving something
    • mechanisms for dealing with complaints from the general public
    • The college has established an effective student support mechanism.
    see also the ERM
    Extra Examples
    • The government is held accountable through the mechanism of regular general elections.
    • The system provides a mechanism whereby information is channelled into the market.
    • an effective mechanism for enforcing the rules
    • Simple repetition was regarded as an effective learning mechanism.
    • The present mechanisms of government could be improved.
    • Various mechanisms are in place for dealing with emergencies.
    • We need some kind of mechanism for making appointments.
    Oxford Collocations Dictionaryadjective
    • effective
    • exact
    • precise
    verb + mechanism
    • provide
    • propose
    • suggest
    mechanism + verb
    • operate
    • work
    • allow something
    preposition
    • by the mechanism of
    • through the mechanism of
    • mechanism for
    See full entry
  3. a system of parts in a living thing that together perform a particular function
    • the balance mechanism in the ears
    see also defence mechanism
    Extra Examples
    • Scientists have been unable to explain the exact mechanism behind this effect.
    • This activates the body's thirst mechanism.
    • physiological mechanisms regulating the release of hormones
    Oxford Collocations Dictionaryadjective
    • effective
    • exact
    • precise
    verb + mechanism
    • provide
    • propose
    • suggest
    mechanism + verb
    • operate
    • work
    • allow something
    preposition
    • by the mechanism of
    • through the mechanism of
    • mechanism for
    See full entry
  4. Word Originmid 17th cent.: from modern Latin mechanismus, from Greek mēkhanē, from mēkhos ‘contrivance’.
See mechanism in the Oxford Advanced American DictionarySee mechanism in the Oxford Learner's Dictionary of Academic English
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adjective
 
 
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