n.
Pronunciation: ˌ a-p ə - ' ra-t ə s, - ' r ā -
Function: noun
Inflected Form: plural -tus · es or -tus
Etymology: Latin, from apparare to prepare, from ad- + parare to prepare ― more at PARE
Date: circa 1628
1 a : a set of materials or equipment designed for a particular use b : a group of anatomical or cytological parts functioning together <mitotic apparatus > c : an instrument or appliance designed for a specific operation
2 : the functional processes by means of which a systematized activity is carried out <the apparatus of society>: as a : the machinery of government b : the organization of a political party or an underground movement