English▸ noun an apparatus using or applying mechanical power and having several parts, each with a definite function and together performing a particular task:
a fax machine
a shredding machine.
▪ [with modifier] a coin-operated dispenser:
a candy machine.
▪ technical any device that transmits a force or directs its application.
▪ an efficient and well-organized group of powerful people:
his campaign illustrated the continuing strength of a powerful political machine.
▪ a person who acts with the mechanical efficiency of a machine:
comedians are more than just laugh machines.
▸ verb [with object] (especially in manufacturing) make or operate on with a machine:
the cylinder covers are waiting to be machined.
– ORIGIN mid 16th century (originally denoting a structure): from French, via Latin from Doric Greek makhana (Greek mēkhanē, from mēkhos ‘contrivance’).