Definition of machine
(Entry 1 of 2)
1a
: a mechanically, electrically, or electronically operated device for performing a task
a machine for cleaning carpets
c
: a coin-operated device
a cigarette machine
d(1)
: an assemblage (see assemblage sense 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
e
: machinery
—used with the or in plural
f
: any of various apparatuses formerly used to produce stage effects
2a
: one that resembles a machine (as in being methodical, tireless, or consistently productive)
a gifted publicist and quote machine— John Lancaster
b(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
c
: a living organism or one of its functional systems
3
: a literary device or contrivance introduced for dramatic effect
4a
archaic
: a constructed thing whether material or immaterial
b
archaic
: a military engine
machine
verb
machined; machining
Definition of machine (Entry 2 of 2)
: to process by or as if by machine
especially
: to reduce or finish by or as if by turning, shaping, planing, or milling by machine-operated tools
Keep scrolling for more
Keep scrolling for more
Keep scrolling for more
Keep scrolling for more
Test Your Vocabulary
Who Knew?
-
- What is a ruelle?

Test your visual vocabulary with our 10-question challenge!
TAKE THE QUIZ
Anagram puzzles meet word search.
TAKE THE QUIZLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Words at Play
Ask the Editors
Share machine
Time Traveler for machine
The first known use of machine was circa 1545
See more words from the same year