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Machines: meaning, definitions and examples

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machines

 

[ məˈʃiːnz ]

Noun / Verb
Context #1 | Noun

electronic devices

Machines are devices that use power to do a particular type of work.

Synonyms

apparatus, devices, equipment.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
machines

General term used for devices with moving parts that perform specific tasks.

  • Factories use machines to automate production
  • He fixed the washing machine yesterday
devices

Refers to small, specialized instruments or pieces of equipment, including electronic gadgets.

  • She uses several smart devices to keep track of her fitness routine
  • Security devices like cameras and alarms keep our homes safe
apparatus

Often used in scientific or medical contexts to describe a set of instruments or equipment.

  • The laboratory apparatus includes microscopes and test tubes
  • Surgeons rely on highly specialized apparatus
equipment

General term for any tools or machinery needed for a specific purpose, commonly used in professional or industrial settings.

  • Construction workers need heavy equipment like cranes and bulldozers
  • All firefighting equipment must be regularly checked

Examples of usage

  • Machines such as computers and smartphones have become essential in our daily lives.
  • Industrial machines are used in factories to increase productivity.
  • Simple machines like levers and pulleys make it easier to lift heavy objects.
Context #2 | Noun

organizations

In the context of politics or business, machines refer to organizations or groups that work together in a coordinated and efficient manner to achieve a common goal.

Synonyms

apparatus, group, organization.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
machines

Refers to mechanical devices or equipment designed to perform specific tasks or functions.

  • The factory is filled with machines that build cars.
  • We need to repair the washing machines in the laundry room.
organization

Refers to a structured group of people with a specific purpose, such as a business, charity, or governmental entity.

  • She works for an international humanitarian organization.
  • The organization has plans to expand their operations in Asia.
group

Refers to a number of people or things that are located, gathered, or classed together.

  • A group of friends decided to go camping.
  • The study was conducted on a group of 200 people.
apparatus

Refers to a complex or technical piece of equipment; often used in scientific, medical, or technical contexts.

  • The laboratory uses an intricate apparatus for testing chemicals.
  • Firefighters rely on a breathing apparatus while fighting fires.

Examples of usage

  • The political machine was able to mobilize voters effectively during the election.
  • Big corporations often operate like well-oiled machines, maximizing profits and efficiency.
  • The campaign relied on a strong grassroots machine to reach out to voters.
Context #3 | Verb

operate

To machine something means to cut or shape it using a machine tool.

Synonyms

craft, cut, shape.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
machines

Use when referring to mechanical devices or tools used in various contexts such as manufacturing, home appliances, or computers.

  • The factory uses advanced machines to increase production efficiency.
  • My washing machine stopped working, and I need to call a repair technician.
cut

Use when referring to dividing something into pieces, typically with a sharp tool.

  • Before you cook the vegetables, make sure to cut them into small pieces.
  • The carpenter needs to cut the wood to the correct length for the project.
shape

Use when referring to forming something into a particular form or outline.

  • The potter will shape the clay into a beautiful vase.
  • Personal experiences often shape a person's worldview.
craft

Use when referring to the skill or activity involving making things by hand, often with artistic intent.

  • She loves to craft handmade jewelry from recycled materials.
  • Woodworking is a craft that requires a lot of patience and precision.

Examples of usage

  • The engineer machined the metal parts with precision.
  • The workshop can machine custom parts for various applications.

Translations

Translations of the word "machines" in other languages:

🇵🇹 máquinas

🇮🇳 मशीनें

🇩🇪 Maschinen

🇮🇩 mesin

🇺🇦 машини

🇵🇱 maszyny

🇯🇵 機械

🇫🇷 machines

🇪🇸 máquinas

🇹🇷 makineler

🇰🇷 기계

🇸🇦 آلات

🇨🇿 stroje

🇸🇰 stroje

🇨🇳 机器

🇸🇮 stroji

🇮🇸 vélar

🇰🇿 машиналар

🇬🇪 მანქანები

🇦🇿 maşınlar

🇲🇽 máquinas

Etymology

The word 'machines' originated from the Latin word 'machina', which means a contrivance or a device. The concept of machines has evolved over centuries, from simple tools like levers and pulleys to complex electronic devices. Machines have played a crucial role in the advancement of technology and industry, revolutionizing the way we work and live. The Industrial Revolution marked a significant period in the history of machines, leading to the mechanization of production processes. Today, machines are ubiquitous in our modern world, powering everything from transportation to communication.

See also: machinery, machinist.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #2,190, this word belongs to solid intermediate vocabulary. It's frequently used in both casual and formal contexts and is worth learning for better fluency.