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engine
The definition of an engine is a machine or instrument that uses energy to create mechanical power, or a locomotive on a train.
(noun)- An example of an engine is what makes a car run.
- An example of an engine is the car that pulls a train.
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See engine in Webster's New World College Dictionary
noun
- any machine that uses energy to develop mechanical power; esp., a machine for transmitting motion to some other machine
- a railroad locomotive
- any instrument or machine; apparatus: engines of warfare, engines of torture
- fire engine
- Archaic any means or device
Origin: ME engin, native talent, hence something produced by this < OFr < L ingenium, natural ability, genius < in-, in + base of gignere, to beget: see genus
See engine in American Heritage Dictionary 4
noun
- a. A machine that converts energy into mechanical force or motion.b. Such a machine distinguished from an electric, spring-driven, or hydraulic motor by its use of a fuel.
- a. A mechanical appliance, instrument, or tool: engines of war.b. An agent, instrument, or means of accomplishment.
- A locomotive.
- A fire engine.
- Computer Science A search engine.
To equip with an engine or engines.
Origin:
Origin: Middle English engin, skill, machine
Origin: , from Old French, innate ability
Origin: , from Latin ingenium; see genə- in Indo-European roots
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