vending machine

noun

1. a coin-operated machine for selling small articles, beverages, etc.

vending machine

noun

1. a machine that automatically dispenses consumer goods such as cigarettes, food, or petrol, when money is inserted Also calledautomat

Word History and Origins

Origin of vending machine¹

First recorded in 1905–10

Example Sentences

Consumers could reclaim the deposit by returning the container to retailers and hospitality premises that sell such single-use products to take away, or to specially-designed reverse vending machines.

From BBC

Founded in 2010, the Chinese toy maker has seen enormous success overseas for its artist-designed collectibles, growing to around 500 retail shops and 2,500 toy vending machines in 30 countries.

From Los Angeles Times

Budget: Get rid of the junk food vending machines.

From Los Angeles Times

Snap first released smart glasses that could record video in 2016, selling them in vending machines in Los Angeles before making them available online.

From Los Angeles Times

Reverse vending machines pay customers for beverage containers placed in the machine, according to CalRecycle, while mobile recycling centers redeem empty beverage containers at more than one location.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• vendor