English Reference
verb · adjective

engineered

v. · adj.
US /ˌɛndʒəˈniɹd/ UK /ˌɛndʒɪnˈiəd/ en·gi·neered

  1. 01 B2 Upper Intermediate Science

    v.designed and built something using scientific or technical skills.

    v.designed, constructed, or managed according to engineering principles. Transitive — requires a direct object.

    Simple

    The bridge was engineered to withstand very strong winds and earthquakes.

    In context

    The aerospace firm engineered the new propulsion system to maximise fuel efficiency while significantly reducing carbon emissions during takeoff.

  2. 02 C1 Advanced Formal

    v.carefully planned or controlled a situation to make sure a specific thing happened.

    v.skilfully or deviously arranged for something to occur. Often carries a connotation of strategic manipulation.

    Simple

    She engineered a meeting with the CEO to discuss her new ideas.

    In context

    The diplomat carefully engineered a ceasefire by addressing the primary security concerns of both factions behind closed doors.

  3. 03 B2 Upper Intermediate Technical Technical

    adj.made or modified using technical methods rather than occurring naturally.

    adj.produced or modified through deliberate technical or genetic intervention.

    Simple

    The company uses engineered wood because it is stronger than natural timber.

    In context

    Engineered crops have allowed farmers in arid regions to maintain high yields despite increasingly frequent periods of drought.

The continent’s railways and roads “were engineered for a climate that no longer exists,” one expert said.

The New York Times· 14 Aug 2026

In fact, researchers said these engineered EVs could function similarly to cancer CAR T-cell therapies that are made from a patient's own immune system T cells.

Phys.org· 17 Aug 2026
This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Frequent
Updated