pipe line

1 definition found

pipe line - Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48 :

  pipeline \pipeline\, pipe line \pipe line\
     1. A line of pipe with pumping machinery and apparatus for
        conveying liquids, gases, or finely divided solids, such
        as petroleum or natural gas, between distant points.
        [Webster 1913 Suppl. +PJC]
  
     2. fig. an information channel direct from the source.
        [PJC]
  
     3. the set of stages and processes from the invention or
        design of a product to its ultimate use, production, or
        commercial sale. Used commonly in the phrase
  
     in the pipeline, i. e. still in preparation or under
        development.
        [PJC]