Sŷs'tem, n.

n. [Lat. systema, Gr. σύστημα, from συνιστάναι, to place together; Fr. système, It. & Sp. sistema. See supra.]

1Sense 1. An assemblage of objects arranged in regular subordination, or after some distinct method, usually logical or scientific; a complete exhibition of essential principles or facts, arranged in a rational dependence or connection; a complete whole of objects related by some common law or principle, or end; a regular union of principles or parts forming one entire thing; as, a system of philosophy; a system of government; the solar system; a system of divinity; a system of botany or of chemistry.

The best way to learn any science, is to begin with a regular system, or a short and plain scheme of that science well drawn up into a narrow compass. Watts.

2Sense 2. Hence, the whole scheme of created things regarded as forming one complete plan or whole; the universe. “The great system of the world.” Boyle.

3Sense 3. Regular method or order; as, to have a system in one’s business.

4Sense 4. (Mus.) An interval compounded, or supposed to be compounded, of several lesser intervals, as the fifth, octave, and the like, the elements of which are called diastems. Busby.

5Sense 5. (Physiol.) The totality of parts in the body, performing the same or an analogous or a connected function, as the capillary system, the digestive system; hence, also, the body as a functional unity or whole.