Definition of: machine

(mə·shēn′) noun
1. Any combination of mechanisms for utilizing, modifying, applying, or transmitting energy, whether simple, as a lever and fulcrum, pulley, etc., or complex, as a Fourdrinier papermaking apparatus.
2. An automobile; also, any other mechanical vehicle, as a bicycle, airplane, etc.
3. In many trades or vocations, the construction principally used or typical of the trade.
4. One who acts in a mechanical manner; a robot.
5. An ancient theatrical contrivance, originating in Greece, for the creation of stage effects: also applied to such portions of the plot of a work of fiction as are introduced for the sake of effect.
6. The organization of the powers of any complex body: the machine of government; specifically, an organization within a political party, controlled by practical politicians, in which discipline and subordination are maintained chiefly by the use of patronage, as in the distribution of offices and contracts.
7. Formerly, a military engine.
—adjective
1. Pertaining to, for, produced by, or producing a machine or machinery: machine knitting, machine shop, etc.
2. Typified by the application or predominance of machines: machine age.
3. Mechanical; lacking in originality or uniqueness.
—v.t. ·chined, ·chin·ing To shape, mill, make, etc., by machinery. [<F <L machina <Gk. mēchanē <mēchos a contrivance]
—ma·chin′al adjective