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.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

The word 'engineer' comes from the Latin 'ingeniator,' meaning 'to create' or 'to devise,' highlighting their role in inventive processes.
Ancient civilizations, such as the Egyptians and Romans, had engineers who designed incredible structures like pyramids and aqueducts.
In the Middle Ages, engineers were often referred to as 'masters of the art of war,' responsible for designing fortifications and siege engines.

Technology

Modern engineering disciplines include civil, mechanical, electrical, and software engineering, each focusing on different aspects of technology.
The invention of the steam engine in the 18th century revolutionized transportation and industry, thanks in part to engineers who improved its design.
With the rise of computers, fields like computer engineering and robotics are emerging, showcasing the evolving nature of engineering.

Pop Culture

Engineers are often portrayed in movies and TV shows as brilliant inventors or heroic figures who save the day with their technical skills.
Famous fictional engineers include Tony Stark (Iron Man) and Emmett Brown (Back to the Future), who use their engineering talents for extraordinary purposes.
The popular game 'Minecraft' allows players to act as engineers, building complex structures and machines in a creative virtual world.

Education

Engineering requires strong skills in mathematics and science, making it a challenging yet rewarding field for students.
Many engineers pursue specialized education, going through rigorous training, often leading to advanced degrees and licenses.
Engineering programs emphasize problem-solving and teamwork, preparing future engineers for real-world challenges.

Psychology

Studies show that engineering often attracts individuals who enjoy logical reasoning and have a passion for creating innovative solutions.
The collaborative nature of engineering projects requires effective communication skills and empathy to work well with diverse teams.
Research indicates that engineers are likely to exhibit strong analytical skills, which can aid in decision-making and complex problem-solving.

Translations

Translations of the word "engineers" in other languages:

🇵🇹 engenheiros

🇮🇳 अभियंता

🇩🇪 Ingenieure

🇮🇩 insinyur

🇺🇦 інженери

🇵🇱 inżynierowie

🇯🇵 エンジニア

🇫🇷 ingénieurs

🇪🇸 ingenieros

🇹🇷 mühendisler

🇰🇷 엔지니어

🇸🇦 مهندسون

🇨🇿 inženýři

🇸🇰 inžinieri

🇨🇳 工程师

🇸🇮 inženirji

🇮🇸 verkfræðingar

🇰🇿 инженерлер

🇬🇪 ინჟინრები

🇦🇿 mühəndislər

🇲🇽 ingenieros

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.

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3068 refuse
3069 meal
3070 engineers
3071 breaking
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