What does industrial mean?
Industrial means connected with industry, particularly the manufacture of goods, the use of machinery, and the large-scale organization of production. It commonly describes manufacturing, factories, industrial areas, industrial development, and technologies designed for use in industry. The word can also convey the idea of an economy or society structured around industrial production rather than agriculture or small-scale crafts. In everyday and political discussion, it may refer to the economic and social transformation associated with industrialization, as in “industrial revolution.” While “industrial” can occasionally suggest something harsh or powerful, its primary meaning is factual and economic. It is useful because it links a particular activity, place, or process to organized production and technological development.
Relating to industry, manufacturing, or the large-scale production of goods.
"The factory introduced more efficient industrial methods."
This is the dominant modern sense. It is used in technical, economic, geographical, and political contexts.
Characterized by factories, manufacturing, or large-scale economic development.
"The city is an important industrial centre."
Often used in regional, urban, and historical descriptions.
An industrial enterprise, organization, or person employed in industry.
"The area is home to several small industrials."
The noun sense is uncommon in modern general English and is mainly found in specialized or older usage.
The word “industrial” helped make the modern world: from factories and railways to mass production, industrial development transformed how societies work, trade, and build cities.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does industrial come from?
Industrial comes from the Latin adjective industrialis, meaning “belonging to or associated with industry.” The underlying word industria originally referred to diligence or purposeful activity and developed in Latin into the sense of a trade or occupation. Industrial entered English in the 17th century in connection with manufacturing and organized production. Its relatives include industry, industrious, industrialist, and industrialize, all reflecting the same Latin root.
Related word forms
How industrial is actually used
The term is widely used in formal, journalistic, and business contexts. “Industrial” generally emphasizes manufacturing, production, or large-scale economic organization; it is not usually a neutral substitute for every use of “industrial” in the sense of severe, harsh, or aggressive.