verb

engage

To bring mechanical parts into working contact.

The gear engages with a quiet click.

Etymology

engageFrenchput in pledge; bring into involvement

The older verb concerns binding or involving. Mechanical engagement applies that joining image to parts brought into contact so they operate together.

More examples

She engaged the clutch.
The mechanism would not engage properly.
He checked that both parts were engaged.

Forms

engage · engages · engaged · engaging

Similar words

connect: Join parts generally.
mesh: Bring toothed parts into working contact.