clockwork
UK[ˈklɒk.wɜːk]US[ˈklɑːk.wɝːk]
n
The mechanism inside a clock that makes it work, consisting of many small gears and springs.
n
Used to describe something that is very regular, precise, and predictable in its operation.
Morpheme Breakdown
clock
work
clock
work
Etymology
The word 'clockwork' is a transparent English compound formed from two native elements. 'Clock' entered English from Middle Dutch, originally referring to a bell that marked the hours, its sound imitative of a bell strike. 'Work' is a foundational Germanic term from Old English, denoting an act of labor or a functioning mechanism. Combined, the term literally means "the working mechanism of a clock." Over time, the precision and regularity of mechanical clock mechanisms became proverbial, leading to the modern abstract sense describing any process that operates with machinelike predictability and flawless order.
Analysis
Structure: clock + work
- clock: From Middle Dutch 'clocke' (bell, clock), of imitative origin. In this compound, it functions as the object or subject of the work.
- work: From Old English 'weorc' (something done, labor, action). In this compound, it functions as the action or mechanism related to the clock.
Examples
The old toy robot was powered by intricate clockwork.
The project proceeded with clockwork precision, every phase completed exactly on schedule.
In the 18th century, philosophers sometimes described the universe as a vast piece of clockwork.