mechanism

A mechanism is a machine, a system of parts of a machine, or a physical or mental tool that acts like a machine. (noun)

An example of a mechanism is a device for making toys.
An example of a mechanism is a blueprint and diagram software program for building a house.

See mechanism in Webster's New World College Dictionary

noun

the working parts or arrangement of parts of a machine; works: the mechanism of a clock
1. a system whose parts work together like those of a machine: the mechanism of the universe
2. any system or means for doing something; esp., a physical or mental process or processes, whether conscious or unconscious, by which some result is produced; machinery
the mechanical aspect; technical part
the theory or doctrine that all the phenomena of the universe, particularly life, can ultimately be explained in terms of matter moving in accordance with the laws of nature

See mechanism in American Heritage Dictionary 4

(mĕkˈə-nĭzˌəm)

noun

a. A machine or mechanical appliance.
b. The arrangement of connected parts in a machine.
A system of parts that operate or interact like those of a machine: the mechanism of the solar system.
An instrument or a process, physical or mental, by which something is done or comes into being: “The mechanism of oral learning is largely that of continuous repetition” (T.G.E. Powell).
A habitual manner of acting to achieve an end.
Biology The involuntary and consistent response of an organism to a given stimulus.
Psychology A usually unconscious mental and emotional pattern that shapes behavior in a given situation or environment: a defense mechanism.
The sequence of steps in a chemical reaction.
Philosophy The doctrine that all natural phenomena are explicable by material causes and mechanical principles.