Equipment refers to the tools, machines, or gear needed to do a particular job or activity. A scientist's laboratory equipment might include microscopes, test tubes, and beakers. A carpenter's equipment includes hammers, saws, and drills. A soccer team's equipment includes balls, goals, nets, and uniforms.

The word emphasizes that these are specific items chosen because they help accomplish something. A photographer needs camera equipment. A rock climber needs safety equipment like ropes, harnesses, and helmets. A school science class needs the right equipment to perform experiments safely and successfully.

Equipment can be simple or complex. A pencil and paper are equipment for writing. A computer, printer, and scanner are equipment for a home office. Construction crews use heavy equipment like bulldozers and cranes to build roads and buildings.

Taking care of your equipment is important. Athletes clean their equipment after practice. Firefighters inspect their equipment regularly to make sure everything works when needed. When you need to equip yourself for a task, you're gathering the right equipment to get the job done.