\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.