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industrial revolution
noun
: a rapid major change in an economy (as in England in the late 18th century) marked by the general introduction of power-driven machinery or by an important change in the prevailing types and methods of use of such machines
Examples of industrial revolution in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
The Czech satirist was exploring the harms of the industrial revolution.
—Beth Wood, San Diego Union-Tribune, 26 May 2024
The company, which traces its roots to the industrial revolution in the 19th century, recently found its existence threatened by competition from China and other factors undercutting its key businesses, including steel-making.
—Melissa Eddy, New York Times, 30 Apr. 2024
In the United States, the 1920s were also marked by major developments in the industrial revolution.
—Carlos Moreno, Fortune, 7 May 2024
However, the steam engine transformed transportation and manufacturing, ushering in the global efficiencies of the industrial revolution.
—Tracy Price, Forbes, 28 Mar. 2024
See all Example Sentences for industrial revolution
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'industrial revolution.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Word History
First Known Use
1840, in the meaning defined above
Time Traveler
The first known use of industrial revolution was
in 1840
Dictionary Entries Near industrial revolution
Cite this Entry
“Industrial revolution.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/industrial%20revolution. Accessed 13 Jun. 2024.
Kids Definition
industrial revolution
noun
: a rapid major change in an economy (as in England in the late 18th century) marked by the general introduction of power-driven machinery
More from Merriam-Webster on industrial revolution
Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about industrial revolution
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