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| en·gine [ énjin ] (plural en·gines) |
noun |
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| Definition: |
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1. machine for powering equipment: a machine that converts an energy source into mechanical power or motion
  a gasoline-powered engine
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2. rail railroad locomotive: a railroad locomotive
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3. driving force or energy source: something that supplies the driving force or energy to a movement, system, or trend
a political movement that was seen as a great engine of social change
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4. comput computer software: a computer program that performs a core or coordinating function for other programs, or has a special-purpose function
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5. military history battlefield machine: a battering ram, catapult, or other device used in warfare
a siege engine
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| [14th century. Via French< Latin ingenium "talent, clever device"] |
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| en·gined adjective |
| en·gine·less adjective |
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