Mech"an*ism (?), n. [Cf.
F. mécanisme, L. mechanisma. See Mechanic.]
1. The arrangement or relation of the parts of
a machine; the parts of a machine, taken collectively; the arrangement or relation of the parts of anything as adapted to produce an
effect; as, the mechanism of a watch; the mechanism of a sewing machine; the mechanism of a seed pod.
2. Mechanical operation or action.
He acknowledges nothing besides matter and motion; so that all must
be performed either by mechanism or accident.
Bentley. 3. (Kinematics) An ideal machine; a combination of movable bodies constituting a machine, but considered only with regard to relative movements.
Hear it pronounced