mechanism Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun the atomic process that occurs during a chemical reaction
    chemical mechanism.
    • he determined unique mechanisms for the photochemical reactions
  2. noun the technical aspects of doing something
    mechanics.
    • a mechanism of social control
    • mechanisms of communication
    • the mechanics of prose style
  3. noun a natural object resembling a machine in structure or function
    • the mechanism of the ear
    • the mechanism of infection
  4. noun (philosophy) the philosophical theory that all phenomena can be explained in terms of physical or biological causes
  5. noun device consisting of a piece of machinery; has moving parts that perform some function

WordNet

Mech"an*ism noun
Etymology
Cf. F. mécanisme, L. mechanisma. See Mechanic.
Definitions
  1. The arrangement or relation of the parts of a machine; the parts of a machine, taken collectively; the arrangement or relation of the parts of anything as adapted to produce an effect; as, the mechanism of a watch; the mechanism of a sewing machine; the mechanism of a seed pod.
  2. Mechanical operation or action.
    He acknowledges nothing besides matter and motion; so that all must be performed either by mechanism or accident. Bentley.
  3. (Kinematics) An ideal machine; a combination of movable bodies constituting a machine, but considered only with regard to relative movements.

Webster 1913