equipement

Equipment is a term used to refer to the set of tools, devices, and machinery that enable a person or organization to perform a task. It typically denotes durable items designed for repeated use, as opposed to consumables or supplies. In common usage, equipment can be counted as 'pieces of equipment' or referred to by its type, such as laboratory equipment or office equipment. The word is largely a mass noun in English.

Etymology: The term derives from Old French equipement, related to equiper ('to outfit').

Applications: Equipment spans many domains: industrial and construction equipment (machinery, cranes, pumps); laboratory equipment (microscopes, centrifuges); medical equipment (imaging devices, diagnostic tools); sporting and outdoor equipment (bikes, skis); military equipment (weapons, vehicles); information technology hardware (servers, networking gear).

Lifecycle: Acquisition, maintenance, and eventual disposal are key stages; procurement emphasizes reliability, safety, and total cost of ownership. Standards and regulations may apply (safety certifications, compatibility, environmental impact).

Notes: In everyday language, equipment is often used broadly to refer to gear for a purpose, while terms such as machinery, devices, or tools can specify subcategories.