logistics
luh-JIS-tiks
/ləˈdʒɪstɪks/
The detailed coordination of a complex operation involving many people, facilities, or supplies.
Focuses on the movement and storage of goods rather than their creation.
The story behind the word. Originally a military term from the French 'logis' (lodging). It referred to the officer responsible for finding 'lodgings' for the troops and managing their supplies.
Word relationships
- coordination: Coordination is general; logistics is the specific business of moving and housing resources.
- chaos: The complete lack of organization or logistical planning.
Commonly confused with
- logic: Logic is the study of reasoning; logistics is the management of movement and supplies.
Word family
- logistical (adjective): Relating to logistics.
- logistician (noun): A person who manages logistics.
Collocations
- logistics management
- third-party logistics
- logistics network
- inbound logistics
Example sentences
- "Logistics is the ball and chain of armored warfare." A military perspective on the importance of movement.
Memory hook
Logistics is the 'logic' of 'sticks' (moving physical objects from A to B). Logistics = Logic of movement.
When not to use
Don't use for simple planning, like a grocery list; use for complex, multi-step movements.
Fun facts
- During WWII, for every one combat soldier, there were roughly ten soldiers working in logistics and support.
Related words
Explore more words
Also appears in
- Business → Operations & Logistics
- Business → Globalization & Trade
- Military Science & Warfare → Military Strategy & Tactics
- Military Science & Warfare → Military Command & Logistics
- Engineering & Industrial Design → Supply Chain Engineering
- Food Science & Culinary Craft → Agricultural Supply Chains
- Home & Domestic Life → Moving & Relocation
- Skilled Trades & Construction → Commercial Trucking & Freight
- Skilled Trades & Construction → Construction Site Management
- Emergency Services & Public Safety → Disaster Relief & Humanitarian Aid
- Emergency Services & Public Safety → Emergency Shelters & Evacuation
- Aviation & Maritime Transport → Commercial Maritime Shipping
- Civic Life & Public Services → Postal & Delivery Services
- Business → Event Management & Trade Shows
Take your vocabulary further with LangBlitz
Our English vocabulary app: FSRS spaced repetition, 5,000+ curated words across 119 topic groups, CEFR A1 to C2. Explore your mastery with the beautiful Vocabulary World feature.