Mechanism \Mech"an*ism\, n. [Cf. F. m['e]canisme, L. mechanisma. See Mechanic.]

1. The arrangement or relation of the parts of a machine; the parts of a machine, taken collectively; the arrangement or relation of the parts of anything as adapted to produce an effect; as, the mechanism of a watch; the mechanism of a sewing machine; the mechanism of a seed pod.

2. Mechanical operation or action.

He acknowledges nothing besides matter and motion; so that all must be performed either by mechanism or accident. --Bentley.

3. (Kinematics) An ideal machine; a combination of movable bodies constituting a machine, but considered only with regard to relative movements.

Source: Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)