clockwork

• Ein Uhrwerk oder Räderwerk; ein Mechanismus aus Zahnrädern, der meist durch eine Feder angetrieben wird, wie in einer mechanischen Uhr. Im übertragenen Sinn auch für etwas, das so regelmäßig und zwangsläufig abläuft wie ein Uhrwerk.

A noun referring to any mechanism of geared wheels that is driven by a coiled spring, resembling the works of a mechanical clock.

1. B2formal

   The internal mechanism of a clock or similar device, consisting of gears and springs that drive its operation.

   Uhrwerk

   • The clockwork inside the antique clock was beautifully crafted.
   • He carefully repaired the delicate clockwork of the watch.
   • The toy's movement is powered by a simple clockwork mechanism.

   Synonymeactionmachinerymechanismmovement

2. Any similar mechanismB2formal

   Any mechanism of geared wheels driven by a coiled spring, resembling the works of a mechanical clock.

   Uhrwerk

   • The old music box uses clockwork to play its tune.
   • The timer operates on a simple clockwork system.
   • Clockwork toys are popular for their predictable movements.

   Synonymegearingmachinerymechanismwheelwork

3. Smooth operationB2informal

   Used metaphorically to describe something that runs smoothly and predictably.

   Reibungsloses Funktionieren

   • The event ran like clockwork, with no delays.
   • Her daily routine is clockwork, always at the same time.
   • The team's coordination was clockwork, leading to a flawless performance.

   Synonymeefficiencyorderprecisionregularity

   Antonymechaosdisarraydisordermalfunctionturmoil