Definition of machine
1 a
archaic
:a constructed thing whether material or immaterial
b
:conveyance, vehicle;
especially
:automobile
c
archaic
:a military engine
d
:any of various apparatuses formerly used to produce stage effects
e (1)
:an assemblage (see assemblage 1) of parts that transmit forces, motion, and energy one to another in a predetermined manner
(2)
:an instrument (such as a lever) designed to transmit or modify the application of power, force, or motion
f
:a mechanically, electrically, or electronically operated device for performing a task
- a machine for cleaning carpets
g
:a coin-operated device
- a cigarette machine
h
:machinery
—used with the or in plural
2 a
:a living organism or one of its functional systems
b
:one that resembles a machine (as in being methodical, tireless, or consistently productive)
- a gifted publicist and quote machine
- —John Lancaster
c (1)
:a combination of persons acting together for a common end along with the agencies they use
- building a powerful war machine
(2)
:a highly organized political group under the leadership of a boss or small clique
- a politician who challenged the local party machine
3
:a literary device or contrivance introduced for dramatic effect
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