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equipment

n. uncountable
A2 Elementary Oxford US //ɪˈkwɪpmənt// UK //ɪkwˈɪpmənt// equip·ment General-service Humorous Slang

n. the set of tools, machines, or clothes you need for a specific activity. You use this word to talk about everything required to get a job done.

n. the set of tools, devices, or necessary items required for a particular purpose or activity.


SIMPLE

The gym has all the latest exercise equipment.

CONTEXTUAL

Before starting the hike, we checked our equipment to make sure we had enough water and a working compass.

COMPLEX

The laboratory requires specialized equipment to maintain the sterile environment necessary for sensitive biological experiments.

Origin

From equip + -ment, or from French équipement.

Usage

The noun is uncountable and takes a singular verb; it does not have a plural form like 'equipments'.

Pitfall

They bought new equipments for the officeThey bought new equipment for the officeEquipment is uncountable; to refer to individual items, use 'pieces of equipment'.

Idioms1 entry

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