mechanism
n. countable B2 Upper Intermediate Oxford US //ˈmɛkəˌnɪzəm// UK //mˈɛkənˌɪzəm// mech·a·nism
n. a system of moving parts inside a machine that makes it work. It can also mean a specific way or process for getting something done.
n. a system of parts working together in a machine; by extension, a natural or established process by which something takes place or is brought about.
The locking mechanism on the door is broken.
The government needs to establish a formal mechanism for citizens to report local corruption safely.
Evolutionary biology describes the mechanism of natural selection as the primary driver of adaptation within a population over successive generations.
Learned borrowing from New Latin mechanismus, from Ancient Greek μηχανή (mēkhanḗ, “machine”).
Usage
Often paired with 'for' or 'of' to describe its purpose or origin.