Systems
ˈsɪstəmz
Definitions
2 meaningsA set of things working together as parts of a mechanism or interconnecting network.
ˈsɪstəmz
A set of connected things or parts forming a complex whole, in particular.
The education system in that country is highly regarded.
💡 Simply: Imagine your body! It's got a bunch of different parts, like your heart, lungs, and brain, all working together to keep you going. That's a system—a bunch of parts working together! Like, a school is a system. Teachers, students, and classes are all parts that make the system work.
👶 For kids: A system is like a bunch of things that work together, like your body or a toy set.
More Examples
The human digestive system is remarkably efficient.
We need to upgrade our computer systems.
How It's Used
"The company implemented a new inventory management system."
"The circulatory system is responsible for transporting blood throughout the body."
"The company relies on a robust financial reporting system."
A specific process or method that is used to achieve a particular purpose.
ˈsɪstəmz
A method or plan of procedure.
The voting system is being reviewed.
💡 Simply: It is a plan or way of doing something. Think of a recipe! It is a system for baking a cake. The steps and ingredients create a system.
👶 For kids: A system is like a recipe or plan to do something.
More Examples
They used a complex system to analyze the data.
This new system will improve efficiency.
How It's Used
"The company implemented a new performance review system."
"They developed a new accounting system to track expenses."
Synonyms
Arrangement
Framework
Method
Organization
Structure
Approach
Procedure
Process
Scheme
From Late Latin *systema*, from Greek *systēma* (σύστημα), meaning 'an organized whole, a whole composed of parts', from *synistanai* (συνιστάναι), 'to place together'.
The word 'system' has been used in English since the 17th century and initially referred to a complex, integrated whole in various fields like philosophy and natural science. Its use in computer science is a more recent development.
Memory tip
Think of the interconnected parts of a car – the engine, transmission, and brakes all work together as a system.
Practice
Word Origin
Root: synistanai