Dictionary
Definitions from Oxford Languages · Learn more
engineering
/ˌɛn(d)ʒɪˈnɪərɪŋ/
noun
1. 1.
the branch of science and technology concerned with the design, building,
and use of engines, machines, and structures.
2. 2.
the action of working artfully to bring something about.
"if not for his shrewd engineering, the election would have been lost"
Engineering is the creative application of science, math, and
technology to design, build, and maintain systems, structures,
and processes to solve real-world problems and improve daily
life. Engineers identify challenges and invent solutions, creating
everything from bridges and buildings to complex technologies
and efficient systems, constantly balancing creativity with
practical constraints like safety, budget, and available materials.
The Core of Engineering
Problem Solving:
At its heart, engineering is a problem-solving discipline. Engineers
are tasked with finding clever, practical solutions to human needs
and complex challenges.
Science and Math:
Engineers use their understanding of scientific principles and
mathematical concepts as essential tools to analyze situations and
develop their designs.
Design and Creation:
The field involves the invention, design, and construction of new
products, systems, and technologies that serve a practical
purpose.
What Engineers Do
Engineers are responsible for a vast array of innovations that
impact our lives:
Infrastructure: Designing and building roads, bridges, buildings,
and water systems.
Technology: Developing electronics, computers, artificial organs,
and advanced materials.
Processes: Creating and optimizing manufacturing processes,
energy systems, and transportation.
Key Qualities of an Engineer
Creativity:
Engineers must be innovative and resourceful to devise new ways
of meeting demands and overcoming obstacles.
Analytical Skills:
The ability to analyze complex problems, reduce them to their core
components, and then find effective solutions is crucial.
Collaboration:
Engineers often work in teams, requiring strong communication
and teamwork skills.
Adaptability:
The field is constantly evolving, so engineers must be able to follow
scientific progress and apply new information independently.
Examples of Engineering Disciplines
Civil Engineering: Focuses on public infrastructure like roads,
bridges, and buildings.
Mechanical Engineering: Designs machines, power systems, and
various mechanical devices.
Electrical Engineering: Centers on electricity, electronics, and
telecommunications systems.
Chemical Engineering: Involved in the production of chemicals,
fuels, and materials.
What is Civil Engineering
Civil engineering is the branch of engineering that focuses on the
design, construction, management, and maintenance of the
physical and naturally built environment, including public
infrastructure like roads, bridges, dams, and water systems, as
well as buildings, airports, and ports. Civil engineers apply
principles of mathematics, mechanics, and physics, combined
with creativity, to solve practical problems and improve the world
for public good.
Key responsibilities of a civil engineer
Designing and constructing infrastructure:
This includes everything from small residential areas to large-scale
projects like highways, railways, dams, and commercial buildings.
Ensuring safety and quality:
Civil engineers are responsible for making sure structures meet
high standards and are safe for public use.
Managing projects:
They oversee the entire process from planning to completion, often
working with other professionals.
Adapting to modern challenges:
They must also address complex issues such as climate change
and natural disasters, adapting infrastructure to be more resilient.
Examples of projects civil engineers work on
Transportation: Roads, railways, tunnels, and airports.
Water and environmental systems: Water supply, sewerage
systems, and flood mitigation.
Buildings and structures: Offices, schools, hospitals, and other
residential and commercial buildings.
Other projects: Mines, ports, harbors, and various industrial and
public facilities.
Foundational knowledge
Civil engineering draws on principles from: Mathematics,
Mechanics and Physics, Chemistry, and Economics and Business.
