mechanic

[ muh-kan-ik ]

noun

1. a person who repairs and maintains machinery, motors, etc.:

   an automobile mechanic.

2. a worker who is skilled in the use of tools, machines, equipment, etc.
3. Slang. a person skilled in the dishonest handling of cards, dice, or other objects used in games of chance.

mechanic

/ mɪˈkænɪk /

noun

1. a person skilled in maintaining or operating machinery, motors, etc
2. archaic.
   a common labourer

Word History and Origins

Origin of mechanic¹

1350–1400; Middle English: mechanical < Latin mēchanicus < Greek mēchanikós, equivalent to mēchan ( ḗ ) machine + -ikos -ic

Word History and Origins

Origin of mechanic¹

C14: from Latin mēchanicus, from Greek mēkhanikos, from mēkhanē machine

Example Sentences

In an effort to counteract this public health crisis, scientists are looking for new solutions inside the intricate mechanics of bacterial infection.

From Science Daily

The Bell theorem refers to how entangled electrons are predicted by quantum mechanics, making them non-local — often referred to as “spooky action at a distance.”

From Salon

Orbital mechanics mean it's unlikely the half-tonne military spacecraft simply drifted to its current location.

From BBC

The mechanics of the plot itself don’t quite hold up under scrutiny, which is a shame when the dialogue, performances and filmmaking craft are so tightly meshed, moving in perfect sync.

From Los Angeles Times

But because it took several years to work out the mechanics, officials said, youth voting will happen for the first time in both cities this month.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• machinist
• operator
• worker