mechanism
[noun]
Synonyms:
- machine, apparatus, appliance, contrivance, device, instrument, tool
- process, agency, means, method, operation, procedure, system, technique

[TahlilGaran] English Synonym Dictionary ▲

mech‧a‧nis‧m S3 W3 AC /ˈmekənɪzəm/ noun [countable]
[Word Family: noun: machine, machinery, machinist, mechanic, mechanics, mechanism, mechanization; adjective: mechanical, mechanized, mechanistic; verb: machine, mechanize; adverb: mechanically, mechanistically]

1. part of a machine or a set of parts that does a particular job:
the brake mechanism
a clock mechanism

2. a system that is intended to achieve something or deal with a problem
mechanism for (doing) something
existing mechanisms for decision making
mechanism to do something
The Army has set up mechanisms to help jobless ex-soldiers get work. ⇒ exchange rate mechanism

3. a system or a way of behaving that helps a living thing to avoid or protect itself from something difficult or dangerous
defence/control/survival mechanism
When a person is ill, the body’s natural defence mechanisms come into operation.

4. the way that something works
mechanism of
the mechanism of the brain

[TahlilGaran] Dictionary of Contemporary English ▲

mechanism
noun
I. part of a machine
ADJ. firing, locking, steering, trigger, winding
MECHANISM + VERB operate, work The door locking mechanism doesn't work.
jam

[TahlilGaran] Collocations Dictionary ▲

mechanism
II. how sth works
ADJ. effective, precise an effective mechanism for enforcing the rules
underlying | complex | social
VERB + MECHANISM provide The system provides a mechanism whereby information is channelled into the market.
MECHANISM + VERB operate, work | allow sth, ensure sth
PREP. by/through the ~ of The government is held accountable through the mechanism of regular general elections.
~ for a mechanism for dealing with complaints

[TahlilGaran] Collocations Dictionary ▲

mechanism
III. system of parts/behaviour that performs a function
ADJ. avoidance, control, defence, escape, survival The body has defence mechanisms against many diseases.
cellular, genetic, immunological, molecular, neural, physiological, psychological, etc.
PREP. ~ for

[TahlilGaran] Collocations Dictionary ▲