Engineers: meaning, definitions and examples

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engineers

 

[ˌɛn.dʒɪˈnɪər ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

profession

Engineers are professionals who design, build, and maintain structures, machines, systems, or processes. They use scientific and mathematical principles to solve technical problems.

Synonyms

architect, developer, technician.

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Word Description / Examples
engineers

This word is used when referring to professionals who design, build, or maintain engines, machines, or structures. Engineers typically work across various fields including mechanical, civil, chemical, and electrical engineering.

  • The engineers are working on improving the efficiency of the power plant
  • Mechanical engineers designed the new airplane model
technician

Technician refers to someone skilled in detailed technical tasks, often involving equipment maintenance and troubleshooting. They usually work under the supervision of an engineer or specialist in fields like IT, healthcare, or automotive industries.

  • The technician fixed the computer issues quickly
  • A lab technician prepared the samples for analysis
developer

This term can refer to someone who creates software applications (software developer) or someone involved in real estate development (real estate developer). In the tech industry, it often relates to coding and software creation.

  • The developer wrote the code for the new app
  • A real estate developer is planning to build a new shopping mall
architect

Use this word when talking about someone who designs buildings and often supervises their construction. Architects focus on creating structural designs, taking into account aesthetics, functionality, and safety.

  • The architect presented a stunning design for the new skyscraper
  • She is an award-winning architect known for her innovative building designs

Examples of usage

  • Engineers play a crucial role in developing new technologies.
  • Civil engineers work on infrastructure projects such as roads and bridges.
Context #2 | Noun

army

In the military, engineers are responsible for constructing and repairing roads, bridges, and fortifications. They also handle explosives and other specialized tasks.

Synonyms

combat engineer, military engineer, sapper.

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Word Description / Examples
engineers

General term for professionals who apply scientific knowledge to design, build, and maintain structures, machines, devices, systems, and processes.

  • The engineers worked together to design the new bridge.
  • Engineers are essential for developing new technologies.
sapper

A soldier responsible for tasks such as digging trenches, building fortifications, and laying or clearing mines. It is often used within the British Army and other Commonwealth forces and has a historical connotation.

  • The sappers were sent ahead to dismantle the enemy’s fortifications.
  • Sappers cleared the path of explosives before the main troops advanced.
military engineer

A general term for engineers in the military who design and build structures and systems used for defense and warfare. It can include various roles from construction to demolition.

  • Military engineers are responsible for constructing airfields.
  • The military engineer designed a secure bunker system.
combat engineer

A military specialist trained to perform construction tasks under combat conditions, including building fortifications, clearing obstacles, and setting up defensive structures.

  • The combat engineers were deployed to clear the landmines.
  • Combat engineers built a temporary bridge to allow the military convoy to cross the river.

Examples of usage

  • The engineers were called in to build a temporary bridge for the troops.
  • The Army Corps of Engineers is a vital part of the military infrastructure.
Context #3 | Verb

modify

To engineer something is to plan, design, and create it in a skillful and strategic manner. It often involves problem-solving and innovation.

Synonyms

create, design, devise.

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Word Description / Examples
engineers

This word is used when referring to professionals who apply scientific knowledge to design, build, and maintain structures, machines, and systems. It highlights a practical, methodical approach and technical expertise.

  • The engineers are working on the new bridge project.
  • She is one of the best software engineers in the company.
design

This word is mainly used when referring to planning and making detailed plans, especially in the context of architecture, fashion, or technology. It focuses on both aesthetics and functionality.

  • He was hired to design the new logo for the company.
  • She spent weeks designing the layout of her garden.
devise

Usually employed when referring to inventing or planning something complicated or detailed, often involving cleverness or ingenuity. It can have a slightly formal tone.

  • The engineers had to devise a new system to solve the issue.
  • They are working to devise a plan to improve the city's infrastructure.
create

Use this word when emphasizing bringing something into existence or making something new. It often implies a high level of originality or imagination.

  • She loves to create art in her free time.
  • The team worked together to create a new marketing strategy.

Examples of usage

  • He engineered a solution to improve the efficiency of the production process.
  • The team worked together to engineer a new software system.

Translations

Translations of the word "engineers" in other languages:

🇵🇹 engenheiros

🇮🇳 à¤…भियंता

🇩🇪 Ingenieure

🇮🇩 insinyur

🇺🇦 Ñ–нженери

🇵🇱 inżynierowie

🇯🇵 ã‚¨ãƒ³ã‚¸ãƒ‹ã‚¢

🇫🇷 ingénieurs

🇪🇸 ingenieros

🇹🇷 mühendisler

🇰🇷 ì—”지니어

🇸🇦 Ù…هندسون

🇨🇿 inženýři

🇸🇰 inžinieri

🇨🇳 å·¥ç¨‹å¸ˆ

🇸🇮 inženirji

🇮🇸 verkfræðingar

🇰🇿 Ð¸Ð½Ð¶ÐµÐ½ÐµÑ€Ð»ÐµÑ€

🇬🇪 áƒ˜áƒœáƒŸáƒ˜áƒœáƒ áƒ”ბი

🇦🇿 mühÉ™ndislÉ™r

🇲🇽 ingenieros

Etymology

The word 'engineer' originated from the Latin word 'ingenium', meaning 'cleverness' or 'talent'. Over time, it evolved to refer to a person who designs and constructs machinery and technology. The concept of engineering has roots in ancient civilizations such as Egypt and Mesopotamia, where engineers were responsible for architectural marvels like the pyramids and irrigation systems. Modern engineering disciplines emerged during the Industrial Revolution, leading to the diverse field of engineering we know today.

See also: bioengineering, engineered, overengineering.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #3,070, this word is part of upper-intermediate vocabulary. While not among the most basic terms, it appears often enough to be valuable for advanced communication.