pipeline

noun

pipe·​line ˈpīp-ˌlīn 

1

a

: a line of pipe with pumps, valves, and control devices for conveying liquids, gases, or finely divided solids

b

: pipe sense 2b

2

: a direct channel for information

3

: a process or channel of supply

an arms pipeline

4

: a state of development, preparation, or production

several projects in the pipeline

also : the system for such processes

a strong product pipeline

5

: a course of individual advancement or development especially to fill organizational needs

Synonyms

• channel

Examples of pipeline in a Sentence

an equipment hauler serves as the columnist's pipeline for gossip about the rock band

the battle was ultimately lost because the enemy had destroyed our pipeline for resupply

Recent Examples on the Web

Despite the rest of the industry moving on to Unreal Engine 5, FF7 Rebirth still used a last-gen version of the engine to facilitate a faster production pipeline for its development team. —Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 13 Dec. 2024

This mindset creates a lull in job applications, meaning recruiters will likely see fewer candidates in their pipelines. —Wasim Hajjiri, Forbes, 13 Dec. 2024

Billions of dollars in luxury condominium towers are in the pre-sales, planning and construction pipeline. —Kathy A. McDonald, Variety, 13 Dec. 2024

The analyst also noted that Take-Two Interactive’s software development costs and licensing asset, a proxy for investment in the firm’s pipeline, is currently at a record level of $1.7 billion. —Pia Singh, CNBC, 11 Dec. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1856, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing pipeline

• come down the pipeline
• in the pipeline
• the pipeline

Kids Definition

pipeline

noun

pipe·​line ˈpī-ˌplīn 

1

: a line of pipe with pumps, valves, and control devices for carrying liquids, gases, or finely divided solids

2

: a direct channel for information or supplies