any mechanical or electrical device that transmits or modifies energy to perform or assist in the performance of human tasks

an efficient person; the boxer was a magnificent fighting machine'

an intricate organization that accomplishes its goals efficiently; the war machine'

a device for overcoming resistance at one point by applying force at some other point

[ Syn: simple machine ]

a group that controls the activities of a political party; he was endorsed by the Democratic machine

[ Syn: political machine ]

a motor vehicle with four wheels; usually propelled by an internal combustion engine; he needs a car to get to work

[ Syn: car , auto , automobile , motorcar ]

turn, shape, mold, or otherwise finish by machinery

make by machinery; The Americans were machining while others still hand-made cars'