mechanism
noun [ C ]
uk/ˈmekənɪzəm/ usa part of a machine, or a set of parts that work together:
The elevator has a safety mechanism which prevents it from falling.
a way of doing something that is planned or part of a system:
a mechanism to do sth We need to develop a mechanism to keep freelancers supplied with work.
The book proposes a mechanism for resolving work disputes.
a defence/coping/survival mechanism
an effective/elaborate/useful mechanism
a control/monitoring mechanism
See also
exchange rate mechanism
price mechanism