01 n. An assemblage of objects arranged in regular subordination, or after some distinct method, usually logical or scientific; a complete whole …
-
1.
An assemblage of objects arranged in regular subordination, or after some distinct method, usually logical or scientific; a complete whole of objects related by some common law, principle, or end; a complete exhibition of essential principles or facts, arranged in a rational dependence or connection; a regular union of principles or parts forming one entire thing; as, a system of philosophy; a system of government; a system of divinity; a system of botany or chemistry; a military system; the solar system.“The best way to learn any science, is to begin with a regular system, or a short and plain scheme of that science well drawn up into a narrow compass.” — I. Watts.
-
2.
Hence, the whole scheme of created things regarded as forming one complete plan of whole; the universe.
-
3.
Regular method or order; formal arrangement; plan; as, to have a system in one's business.
- 4.
-
5.
An assemblage of parts or organs, either in animal or plant, essential to the performance of some particular function or functions which as a rule are of greater complexity than those manifested by a single organ; as, the capillary system, the muscular system, the digestive system, etc.; hence, the whole body as a functional unity.(Biol.)
-
6.
One of the stellate or irregular clusters of intimately united zooids which are imbedded in, or scattered over, the surface of the common tissue of many compound ascidians.(Zool.)