ma·chine / məˈshēn/ • n. 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. ∎  a coin-operated dispenser: a candy machine. ∎  technical any device that transmits a force or directs its application. ∎  fig. an efficient and well-organized group of powerful people: his campaign illustrated the continuing strength of a powerful political machine. ∎ fig. a person who acts with the mechanical efficiency of a machine: comedians are more than just laugh machines.• v. [tr.] (esp. in manufacturing) make or operate on with a machine: [as adj.] (machined) a decoratively machined brass rod.

machine Device that modifies or transmits a force in order to do useful work. In a basic (simple) machine, a force (effort) overcomes a larger force (load). The ratio of the load (output force) to the effort (input force) is the machine's force ratio, formerly called mechanical advantage. The ratio of the distance moved by the load to the distance moved by the effort is the distance ratio (formerly velocity ratio). The ratio of the work done by the machine to that put in it is the efficiency, usually expressed as a percentage. The three primary machines are the inclined plane (which includes the screw and the wedge), the lever, and the wheel (which includes the pulley and the wheel and axle).

machine Usually, a real – or imagined – computer (see also virtual machine, abstract machine, Turing machine), which may or may not be sequential and deterministic. In formal language theory it may imply a sequential machine.

machine † structure, fabric XVI; military engine; wheeled vehicle; apparatus for applying mechanical power, etc. XVII. — (O)F. — L. māchina device, contrivance, engine — Gr. mākhanā (Doric), mēkhané, f. mêkhos contrivance, rel. to Gmc. *maʒan have power; see MAY1.
Hence machinery XVII.