Merriam-Webster Collegiate Dictionary - pipeline

 noun  Date: 1860  1.  a. a line of pipe with pumps, valves, and control devices for conveying liquids, gases, or finely divided solids  b. pipe 2b  2. a direct channel for information  3. a process or channel of supply an arms ~  4. a state of development, preparation, or production several projects in the ~; also the system for such processes a strong product ~  5. a course of individual advancement or development especially to fill organizational needs