time machine

noun

1. a theoretical apparatus that would convey one to the past or future.

time machine

noun

1. (in science fiction) a machine in which people or objects can be transported into the past or the future

Word History and Origins

Origin of time machine¹

First recorded in 1890–95

Example Sentences

Seeing the series of dance works about Louisa May Alcott’s beloved 19th century novel is like stepping into a time machine.

From Los Angeles Times

As contemporary Angelenos, seeing the immersive “Little Women Ballet” might be as close as we’ll ever get to stepping into a time machine.

From Los Angeles Times

The trial was fresh in memory when the DMC-12 — equipped with the mysterious “flux capacitor”— served as a time machine in the 1985 hit “Back to the Future,” enshrining it in pop culture.

From Los Angeles Times

“It’s like entering a time machine watching this film.”

From New York Times

TikTok can add a new skill to its résumé: disco time machine.

From New York Times