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logistics

luh-JISS-tiks /ləˈdʒɪs.tɪks/

nounB2IELTSTOEFLGMATGRE

generalcommercial

The detailed organization and implementation of complex operations involving the movement of goods, equipment, and people.

Covers the total strategic system—planning, inventory, movement, and warehousing—not just the driving.

The story behind the word. Originating in 19th-century French military strategy ('logistique') to denote the science of quartering, moving, and supplying troops. It migrated into commercial management after World War II.

Word relationships

supply chain management: Supply chain management encompasses procurement and manufacturing, while logistics focuses on movement and storage.
coordination: Coordination is a general administrative skill, while logistics is a specialized transport domain.

Commonly confused with

logic: Logic is principles of reasoning; logistics comes from military quartermaster science.

Word family

logistician / logistician (noun): A specialist skilled in supply chain and transport operations.
logistical (adjective): Relating to the practical organization of complex operations.

Collocations

logistics management
third-party logistics (3PL)
logistics network
reverse logistics

Example sentences

"Flawless third-party logistics allowed the retailer to maintain fast delivery during high demand seasons." Corporate strategic overview
"Disaster relief efforts require precision logistics to supply food and water without creating bottlenecks." Emergency coordination

Memory hook

LOGISTICS: LOGging and tracking every STATISTIC in transport. Mastering complex movement.

When not to use

Do not use to describe a single simple action, like taking a taxi across town.

Fun facts

Baron Antoine-Henri Jomini first formalized 'logistics' in 1838 alongside strategy and tactics as the three pillars of warfare.