# engineering

/ˈɛndʒəˈnɪɹɪŋ/ (US) · /ˌɛndʒɪnˈiəɹɪŋ/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/engineering
Updated: 2026-06-19

## Senses

### 1. the profession/field

noun · CEFR B1

the study or job of designing and building machines, roads, or systems using science.

For teachers: the discipline of applying scientific and mathematical principles to design, construct, and maintain structures, machines, and systems.

- She decided to study civil engineering because she wanted to design bridges.
- Advances in structural engineering have allowed architects to design skyscrapers that can withstand extreme seismic activity and high wind speeds.

### 2. on a ship

noun · CEFR C1 · Technical

the part of a ship where the engines are kept and managed.

For teachers: the section or compartment of a vessel where the propulsion machinery is located and operated.

- The captain called down to engineering to ask for more speed.
- The fire started in engineering, forcing the crew to shut down the main turbines and switch to emergency power.

Usage: Often used without an article when referring to the department or location on a ship.

### 3. designing or arranging

verb · CEFR B2

the act of planning or building something, or making a situation happen.

For teachers: the present participle of engineer, referring to the act of designing or skillfully arranging a situation.

- They are engineering a new type of engine that uses less fuel.
- By carefully engineering the social media campaign, the marketing team ensured the product went viral within hours of its release.

## Examples

- She wants to study mechanical engineering at university.
- The bridge is a masterpiece of modern engineering that allows thousands of cars to cross the river safely every day.
- Advances in genetic engineering have allowed scientists to modify the DNA of crops to make them more resistant to drought and pests.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.