apparatus
noun
ap·pa·ra·tus
ˌa-pə-ˈra-təs 
-ˈrā-
-ˈrā-
plural apparatuses or apparatus
1
a
: a set of materials or equipment designed for a particular use
b
: a group of anatomical or cytological parts functioning together
mitotic apparatus
c
: an instrument or appliance designed for a specific operation
an apparatus for measuring vision
2
: the functional processes by means of which a systematized activity is carried out
the apparatus of society
: such as
a
: the machinery of government
b
: the organization of a political party or an underground movement
Synonyms
Examples of apparatus in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Combatting these threats takes a coordinated effort of the nation's law enforcement and national security apparatus.
—
Donald J. Mihalek, ABC News, 6 July 2024
Although the 40-year-old Chevron precedent was mostly unknown to non-lawyers until recently, overturning it will have profound consequences for the legal system and the whole apparatus of government through regulation.
—Noah Feldman, The Mercury News, 2 July 2024
Without knowing the true severity of her injury, Jones pushed through her uneven bars routine and earned the highest score on the apparatus of the night.
—Deanna Taylor, Essence, 1 July 2024
In addition to the all-around rankings, the selection committee will look at the top three gymnasts on each apparatus.
—Kaetlyn Liddy, NBC News, 30 June 2024
See all Example Sentences for apparatus 
Donald J. Mihalek, ABC News, 6 July 2024
Although the 40-year-old Chevron precedent was mostly unknown to non-lawyers until recently, overturning it will have profound consequences for the legal system and the whole apparatus of government through regulation.
—Noah Feldman, The Mercury News, 2 July 2024
Without knowing the true severity of her injury, Jones pushed through her uneven bars routine and earned the highest score on the apparatus of the night.
—Deanna Taylor, Essence, 1 July 2024
In addition to the all-around rankings, the selection committee will look at the top three gymnasts on each apparatus.
—Kaetlyn Liddy, NBC News, 30 June 2024
See all Example Sentences for apparatus
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'apparatus.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Dictionary Entries Near apparatus
Cite this Entry
“Apparatus.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/apparatus. Accessed 15 Jul. 2024.
Copy CitationKids Definition
apparatus
noun
ap·pa·ra·tus
ˌap-ə-ˈrat-əs
-ˈrāt-
-ˈrāt-
plural apparatuses or apparatus
1
: the equipment or material for a particular use or job
laboratory apparatus
2
: a complicated instrument or device
Medical Definition
apparatus
noun
ap·pa·ra·tus
ˌap-ə-ˈrat-əs
-ˈrāt-
-ˈrāt-
plural apparatuses or apparatus
: a group of anatomical and cytological parts having a common function
the respiratory apparatus
see golgi apparatus
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