Supply: meaning, definitions and examples

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supply

 

[səˈplaɪ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

chain of production

The act of providing something that is needed or wanted. It can refer to goods, services, or resources that are necessary for a specific purpose.

Synonyms

inventory, provision, stock.

Examples of usage

  • During the pandemic, there was a shortage of medical supplies.
  • The company ensured a steady supply of raw materials for production.
Context #2 | Verb

fulfilling a demand

To make something available to be used or bought. It involves meeting the needs or requirements of a person or situation.

Synonyms

deliver, furnish, provide.

Examples of usage

  • The store will supply the new products next week.
  • The government supplied emergency aid to the affected areas.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the Latin 'supplicare', meaning 'to supply or offer'.
  • It evolved through Old French 'supleer', which also means 'to fill or complete'.
  • ‘Supply’ has been used in English since the 14th century, showing its long-standing importance.

Economics

  • In economics, supply refers to the amount of a product that producers are willing to sell at a certain price.
  • The Law of Supply states that as the price of a good increases, the supply also usually increases.
  • Supply and demand work together; when demand goes up and supply stays the same, prices may rise.

Logistics

  • Supply chain management involves overseeing how goods move from one place to another, ensuring efficiency.
  • The concept of 'just-in-time supply' minimizes inventory and reduces costs by delivering goods right when they are needed.
  • Globalization has greatly expanded supply chains, connecting manufacturers and customers across the world.

History

  • During war times, supply lines were crucial for providing troops with necessary equipment and food.
  • The Great Depression highlighted the need for effective supply management as many industries struggled to meet needs.
  • The development of the steam engine allowed for faster transportation of supplies, transforming trade in the 18th and 19th centuries.

Psychology

  • The concept of supply can also relate to meeting psychological needs, like providing emotional support.
  • In relationships, the supply of affection and attention plays a crucial role in bonding and connection.
  • A feeling of scarcity can influence behavior, making people take action to ensure their needs are supplied.

Translations

Translations of the word "supply" in other languages:

🇵🇹 fornecimento

🇮🇳 आपूर्ति

🇩🇪 Versorgung

🇮🇩 pasokan

🇺🇦 постачання

🇵🇱 dostawa

🇯🇵 供給 (きょうきゅう)

🇫🇷 approvisionnement

🇪🇸 suministro

🇹🇷 tedarik

🇰🇷 공급 (gong-geub)

🇸🇦 إمداد

🇨🇿 zásobování

🇸🇰 dodávka

🇨🇳 供应 (gōngyìng)

🇸🇮 oskrba

🇮🇸 framboð

🇰🇿 жабдықтау

🇬🇪 მიწოდება

🇦🇿 təchizat

🇲🇽 suministro

Word Frequency Rank

At #596 in the frequency ranking, this word is highly important for effective communication. It's commonly used in daily situations and should be prioritized in your vocabulary building.