engineering
en-gi-neer-ing · noun
Definitions
noun
- 1.
The branch of science and technology concerned with the design, building, and use of engines, machines, and structures.
- 2.
The work or profession of an engineer.
- 3.
The skillful arrangement or manipulation of a situation.
Phrases & expressions
- •genetic engineering — manipulation of DNA
- •civil engineering — design of public infrastructure
- •software engineering — development of computer programs
- •reverse engineering — analyzing to understand how something works
Related words
Etymology
From "engineer" + "-ing" (noun-forming suffix). The term developed in the 18th century as the profession became more formalized.