apparatus

US /ˌæp.əˈræt̬.əs/
UK /ˌæp.əˈræt̬.əs/
"apparatus" picture
1.

a complex mechanism or device for a particular purpose

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The laboratory is equipped with state-of-the-art scientific apparatus.
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Firefighters use breathing apparatus when entering smoke-filled buildings.
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devicemechanismequipmentinstrumenttool
2.

a group of organs that work together to perform a specific function in the body

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The digestive apparatus breaks down food for nutrient absorption.
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The respiratory apparatus includes the lungs and airways.
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systemorgansstructure
3.

the organization or system by which something operates

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The political apparatus of the state is highly centralized.
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The bureaucratic apparatus can be slow and inefficient.
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systemorganizationstructureframeworkmachinery