First Known Use: circa 1628
Dictionary
apparatus
noun ap·pa·ra·tus \ˌa-pə-ˈra-təs, -ˈrā-\
: a tool or piece of equipment used for specific activities
: the organization or system used for doing or operating something
plural ap·pa·ra·tus·es or ap·pa·ra·tus
Full Definition of 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
2
: the functional processes by means of which a systematized activity is carried out <the apparatus of society>: as a : the machinery of government b : the organization of a political party or an underground movement
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Origin of APPARATUS
Latin, from apparare to prepare, from ad- + parare to prepare — more at pare
Related to APPARATUS
- Synonyms
- accoutrements (or accouterments), equipment, gear, hardware, kit [chiefly British], material(s), matériel (or materiel), outfit, paraphernalia, stuff, tackle
Other Anatomy Terms
Rhymes with APPARATUS
APPARATUS Defined for Kids
apparatus
noun ap·pa·ra·tus \ˌa-pə-ˈra-təs, -ˈrā-\
plural ap·pa·ra·tus·es or apparatus
Definition of APPARATUS for Kids
: the equipment or material for a particular use or job <gymnasium apparatus> <laboratory apparatus>
Medical Dictionary
apparatus
noun ap·pa·ra·tus \ˌap-ə-ˈrat-əs, -ˈrāt-\
plural ap·pa·ra·tus·es or ap·pa·ra·tus
Medical Definition of APPARATUS
: a group of anatomical and cytological parts having a common function <the respiratory apparatus>—see golgi apparatus
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