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DictionarymachineMechanical device
noun / verb

machine

muh-SHEEN/məˈʃiːn/

A coordinated assembly of working parts that performs a task.

The sewing machine stitches the cloth as its flywheel turns.

A mechanical sewing machine with visible needle and flywheel stitching cloth, clear device doing work.
Etymology
machineGreekdevice, tool, contrivance

Greek mēkhanē could mean a tool or contrivance, not necessarily a powered mechanism. The modern moving-parts sense probably developed from uses for apparatus and siege equipment, narrowing the broader idea of a useful device.

In context

TED3:42
You can build a DNA array machine in your garage. Here's the section on the all-important emergency stop switch. (Laughter) Every important machine's got to have a big red button.
Joe DeRisi: Hunting the next killer virus

More examples

  • Workers machine each metal part to the exact size.
  • The political machine rewards loyal supporters with government jobs.
  • She's a machine on the court, never seeming to tire.

Forms

machine · machines · machined · machining

machinery noun — Machines used together for a particular purpose.

machinist noun — A worker who operates precision machine tools.

Similar words

device
A broader term that does not require working parts.
appliance
Usually a machine designed for a specific household task.
mechanism
Emphasizes interacting parts, often within a larger machine.