system

The definition of a system is a set of rules, an arrangement of things, or a group of related things that work toward a common goal.

(noun)

See system in Webster's New World College Dictionary

noun

a set or arrangement of things so related or connected as to form a unity or organic whole: a solar system, school system, system of highways
a set of facts, principles, rules, etc. classified or arranged in a regular, orderly form so as to show a logical plan linking the various parts
a method or plan of classification or arrangement
1. an established way of doing something; method; procedure
2. orderliness or methodical planning in one's way of proceeding
1. the body considered as a functioning organism
2. a number of bodily organs acting together to perform one of the main bodily functions: the digestive system
a related series of natural objects or elements, as cave passages, rivers, etc.
Chem. a group of substances in or approaching equilibrium: a system with two components, phases, or variables is called binary, one with three, ternary, etc.
Comput.
1. an organization of hardware and software, often together with personnel, that function together as a unit
2. operating system: often in the pl. form when used attributively: a system programmer, systems software
Crystallography any of the seven divisions (cubic, tetragonal, hexagonal, rhombohedral, orthorhombic, monoclinic, and triclinic) in which all crystal forms can be placed, based on the degree of symmetry of the crystals
Geol. a major division of stratified rocks consisting of the rocks laid down during a geologic period

Origin: LL systema < Gr systēma (gen. systēmatos) < synistanai, to place together < syn-, together + histanai, to set: see stand

See system in American Heritage Dictionary 4

noun

A group of interacting, interrelated, or interdependent elements forming a complex whole.
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.
An organized set of interrelated ideas or principles.
A social, economic, or political organizational form.
A naturally occurring group of objects or phenomena: the solar system.
A set of objects or phenomena grouped together for classification or analysis.
A condition of harmonious, orderly interaction.
An organized and coordinated method; a procedure. See Synonyms at method.
The prevailing social order; the establishment. Used with the: You can't beat the system.