mech·a·nism 
/ˈmɛkəˌnɪzəm/ noun
plural mech·a·nisms /ˈmɛkəˌnɪzəm/ noun [count] 1 : a piece of machinery : a mechanical part or group of parts having a particular function
▪ The camera's shutter mechanism is broken. ▪ a timing/locking mechanism 2 : a process or system that is used to produce a particular result
▪ Scientists are studying the body's mechanisms for controlling weight. ▪ There is no mechanism in place for enforcing the new law. ▪ a legal mechanism to prevent lobbyists from exerting unfair influence 3 : a way of acting, thinking, or behaving that helps or protects a person in a specified way
▪ a coping/survival mechanism ▪ psychological mechanisms for dealing with a tragic loss — see also defense mechanism, escape mechanism
▪ The camera's shutter mechanism is broken. ▪ a timing/locking mechanism
▪ Scientists are studying the body's mechanisms for controlling weight. ▪ There is no mechanism in place for enforcing the new law. ▪ a legal mechanism to prevent lobbyists from exerting unfair influence
▪ a coping/survival mechanism ▪ psychological mechanisms for dealing with a tragic loss — see also defense mechanism, escape mechanism
