Meaning & Definition
noun
A device or machine designed to operate in a specific manner.
The clock is a complex mechanical that has been keeping time for over a century.
adjective
Related to machines or machinery; involving physical processes rather than human emotions or creativity.
The factory relies heavily on mechanical processes to produce its goods.
Performed without thought; automatic or habitual.
His mechanical response to criticism showed he had not considered her point of view.
Relating to the laws of mechanics; pertaining to the movement or operation of physical objects.
In an engineering class, we explored various mechanical principles that govern motion.
Etymology
From the Latin 'mechanicus', from Greek 'mēkhanikos', relating to machines.
Common Phrases and Expressions
mechanical advantage:
A gain in force or power in a machine.
mechanical work:
Work done by a machine or due to its physical operations.
mechanical properties:
Characteristics such as strength, elasticity, and plasticity of materials.
Slang Meanings
Describing someone who is very unemotional or robotic.
He was acting so mechanical during the group project; there was no creativity at all.
Referring to something done without thought or feeling.
Her mechanical chuckle made it clear she wasn’t really amused by the joke.