Machines: meaning, definitions and examples

⚙️

Add to dictionary

machines

[məˈʃiːnz ]

Definitions

^{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?

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?

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?

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.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

The term 'machine' comes from the Latin word 'machina,' meaning 'a device or contraption,' which laid the foundation for engineering.
Early machines like levers and pulleys date back to ancient civilizations, showing that people have always wanted to make work easier.
The Industrial Revolution in the 18th century brought about a surge in machine development, transforming industries and daily life.

Science

Machines can be classified as simple (like levers and wheels) or complex (like computers and robots) based on their functions.
In physics, machines help us understand concepts like force, work, and energy by demonstrating how they can make tasks easier.
The invention of the steam engine was pivotal in the advancement of modern machinery, leading to trains and factories.

Technology

As technology evolved, machines transitioned from mechanical structures to electronic devices, drastically changing their roles in society.
Artificial intelligence (AI) is making machines smarter, enabling them to learn from data and perform tasks that mimic human abilities.
The advent of 3D printing represents a new frontier for machines, allowing for the creation of objects from digital designs.

Pop Culture

In movies like 'Transformers,' machines are portrayed as sentient beings, blending the line between technology and personality.
The concept of 'machine' appears in many sci-fi books and films, often exploring themes of autonomy and the future of humanity.
Video games often feature machines as characters or tools, showcasing their impact on storytelling and player interaction.

Literature

In George Orwell's '1984,' machines symbolize the oppressive control of the state, representing a loss of humanity.
Karel Čapek's play 'R.U.R.' introduced the term 'robot' and explored the relationship between humans and machines, birthing the genre of science fiction.
Machine imagery is prevalent in poetry, often symbolizing both progress and the mechanization of human experience.

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

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.

...
2187 bringing
2188 dog
2189 won
2190 machines
2191 covering
2192 attempts
2193 destroyed
...