(~es)
1.
The ~ of an organization or system is its structure and method of operation.
For many years, the country had been buried under the ~ of the regime.
N-VAR: with supp
2.
Apparatus is the equipment, such as tools and machines, which is used to do a particular job or activity.
One of the boys had to be rescued by firemen wearing breathing ~.
N-VAR: oft supp N