What does pipeline mean?
A pipeline is a connected route or series of stages used to move something from one place or process to another. In its literal engineering sense, a pipeline carries liquids, gases, or other materials through connected pipes. In modern organizational and technological contexts, the term can describe the movement of products, information, or work through linked stages, such as a manufacturing pipeline or a software deployment pipeline. The word often suggests an orderly, continuous flow rather than an isolated action. It is especially common in discussions of oil and gas transport, distribution systems, and automated development processes. Understanding both the physical and figurative meanings helps explain why pipelines can refer to infrastructure as well as to the procedures that connect different parts of a larger system.
A system of connected pipes or channels for transporting liquids, gases, or materials; also, a connected sequence of processes through which work or information moves.
"The pipeline was damaged by a landslide."
The figurative sense is especially common in business, technology, and manufacturing.
To move or process something through a pipeline or series of connected stages, especially automatically.
"The system pipelines approved submissions directly to the editorial team."
Often used in computing, publishing, and business-process contexts.
The plural is formed by adding -s.
"Several pipelines connect the offshore platforms to the mainland."
From physical pipes to the invisible pipelines that automate software development, the word describes the movement of resources through a connected system.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does pipeline come from?
The word developed in the late 19th century by combining pipe with line. Its earliest uses referred to physical systems of pipes, especially those transporting water, oil, or gas. The figurative sense of a connected sequence of stages developed in the 20th century as industries adopted assembly-line and process-management terminology.
Related word forms
How pipeline is actually used
In business, computing, and manufacturing, the word commonly describes a sequential process. In physical engineering, it usually refers to a conduit for transporting fluids or materials.