1 the structure or adaptation of parts of a machine.
2 a system of mutually adapted parts working together in or as in a machine.
3 the mode of operation of a process.
4 Art mechanical execution; technique.
5 Philos. the doctrine that all natural phenomena, including life, allow mechanical explanation by physics and chemistry.
Etymology: mod.L mechanismus f. Gk (as MACHINE)
Useful english dictionary. 2012.