time machine

noun

: a hypothetical device that permits travel into the past and future

Examples of time machine in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
In 1985, Marty McFly (played by Lucas Hallauer) is a skateboarding high schooler who is accidentally sent back to 1955 in a time machine — ensconced in a DeLorean sports car — by nutty off-the-books scientist Doc Brown (David Josefsberg). Rod Stafford Hagwood, Sun Sentinel, 5 Feb. 2026 None of us have a time machine. Claire Heddles, Miami Herald, 3 Feb. 2026 There is no DeLorean, no time machine. Stephania Taladrid, New Yorker, 1 Feb. 2026 The midcentury modern spirit of Racine's Hobnob Restaurant and Cocktail Lounge feels like a time machine. Ron Faiola, Midwest Living, 15 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for time machine

Word History

First Known Use

1894, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of time machine was in 1894

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Time machine.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/time%20machine. Accessed 7 Feb. 2026.

Kids Definition

time machine

noun
: a fictional machine that allows one to travel backward or forward in time
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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