mechanism
1. [ noun ] (chemistry) the atomic process that occurs during a chemical reaction
Synonyms: chemical_mechanism
Examples:

"he determined unique mechanisms for the photochemical reactions"

Related terms: chemical_process biochemical_mechanism
2. [ noun ] the technical aspects of doing something
Synonyms: mechanics
Examples:

"a mechanism of social control" "mechanisms of communication" "the mechanics of prose style"

Related terms: performance
3. [ noun ] a natural object resembling a machine in structure or function
Examples:

"the mechanism of the ear" "the mechanism of infection"

Related terms: natural_object barrier biological_clock transmission_mechanism
4. [ noun ] (philosophy) the philosophical theory that all phenomena can be explained in terms of physical or biological causes
Related terms: philosophical_doctrine philosophy
5. [ noun ] device consisting of a piece of machinery; has moving parts that perform some function
Related terms: device action drive lock cooling_system control works gear hydraulic_system clockwork mechanical_device delayed_action carriage axis steering_linkage homing_device tape_drive ignition cartridge_ejector drive_line radiator rotating_mechanism film_advance steering_system cartridge_extractor automaton whirler actuator
Similar spelling:   mechanist
  mechanise
  mechanics
  mechanised
  mechanistic
  mechanic
  mechanize
  mechanized
  mechanical
  mechanically
  messianic
  meshing