/'klɒkwɜ:k; `klɑk,wɝk/
n [U]
1 mechanism with wheels and springs, like that of a clock （有似时钟的齿轮和发条的）机械
*[attrib 作定语] a clockwork toy, ie one driven by clockwork 机械玩具
* with clockwork (ie absolute) precision 极精确
* as regular as clockwork, ie very punctual 总是非常准时.
2 (idm 习语) like `clockwork with perfect regularity and precision; smoothly 极有规律性和准确性地; 顺利地; 精确地
*The operation went like clockwork. 手术进行得极为顺利.

n[U]
BrE clockwork toys, trains, soldiers etc have machinery inside them that makes them move when you turn a key
　mechanical toys powered by clockwork
　The tape was driven by a clockwork motor.
go/run like clockwork
to happen in exactly the way you had planned
　The concert went like clockwork.
like clockworkalso(as) regular as clockwork
happening at the same time and in the same way every time
　Matt came round each Friday, regular as clockwork.
with clockwork precision/accuracy
in an extremely exact way