system
sys·tem (sĭsʹtəm)n. 1. A group of interacting, interrelated, or interdependent elements forming a complex whole. 2. A functionally related group of elements, especially: a. The human body regarded as a functional physiological unit. b. An organism as a whole, especially with regard to its vital processes or functions. c. A group of physiologically or anatomically complementary organs or parts: the nervous system; the skeletal system. d. A group of interacting mechanical or electrical components. e. A network of structures and channels, as for communication, travel, or distribution. f. A network of related computer software, hardware, and data transmission devices. 3. An organized set of interrelated ideas or principles. 4. A social, economic, or political organizational form. 5. A naturally occurring group of objects or phenomena: the solar system. 6. A set of objects or phenomena grouped together for classification or analysis. 7. A condition of harmonious, orderly interaction. 8. An organized and coordinated method; a procedure. See Synonyms at method. 9. The prevailing social order; the establishment. Used with the: You can't beat the system. [Late Latin systēma, systēmat-, from Greek sustēma, from sunistanai, to combine : sun-, syn- + histanai, set up, establish; See stā- in Indo-European Roots.]
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