Ma·chīn'er-y, n.

(ma-sheen'er-ŷ), n. [From Eng. machine, Fr. machinerie, the making of machines.]

1. Machines in general, or collectively; as, machinery of war.
2. The working parts of a machine, engine, or instrument arranged and constructed so as to apply and regulate force; as, the machinery of a watch.
3. Hence, the means and appliances by which any thing is kept in action; and, specifically, the extraordinary or supernatural means by which the action of a poetic or fictitious work is carried on and brought to a catastrophe. “An almost indispensable part of the machinery of state.” Macaulay.