Machine
/məˈʃiːn/
Definitions
3 meaningsAn apparatus using or applying mechanical power, and having several parts, each with a definite function, and together performing a particular task.
/məˈʃiːn/
A device that performs a physical task.
The farmer uses a combine machine to harvest the wheat.
💡 Simply: A machine is like a robot or a special tool that does a job. Like a blender helps make smoothies or a car helps you go places! It's got parts that all work together.
👶 For kids: A machine is something that helps you do work. It has many parts that work together. Like a toy car that moves.
More Examples
The new vending machine dispenses snacks and drinks.
She learned how to operate the industrial sewing machine.
How It's Used
"The factory uses automated machines to produce the car parts."
"The washing machine broke down."
A group of people, especially a political party, that is tightly organized and controlled, often used in a derogatory sense.
/məˈʃiːn/
A group of people working together, often a government or political organization.
The party's machine was very effective in getting out the vote.
💡 Simply: Imagine a team of people who are all working together in a very organized way, kind of like a group of robots that work together to achieve the same goal.
👶 For kids: A group of people who work together in secret, doing things they don't want you to know about, like the grown-ups who make laws.
More Examples
The political machine was accused of corruption.
The machine's influence over local affairs was undeniable.
How It's Used
"The political machine controlled the city's finances."
To shape, form, or process using a machine or machines.
/məˈʃiːn/
To make or process using a machine.
The company machines components for aerospace applications.
💡 Simply: If you machine something, you're using a machine to work on it. For instance, you could 'machine' a piece of wood to make it the right size and shape.
👶 For kids: To use a machine to make or change something, like making your toy with the help of a machine.
More Examples
The metal was machined into a complex shape.
They carefully machined the engine parts to ensure a perfect fit.
How It's Used
"The engineer will machine the metal parts to precise specifications."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Idioms & expressions
a well-oiled machine
Something that functions smoothly and efficiently.
"The company's sales team is a well-oiled machine."
From Middle French *machine*, from Latin *machina* ('device, engine, contrivance'), from Ancient Greek *mēkhanē* ('machine, contrivance, engine').
The word machine first appeared in English in the 16th century, and its meaning has gradually expanded from a general mechanical device to encompass political organizations and advanced computational systems.
Memory tip
Think of a washing MACHINE to remember its main use and parts.
Word Origin
"device, engine, contrivance"