D defs.my
Menu ☰
Entry 5 senses · 2 variants Webster, 1913

Mechanic

/mək-ăn'-ĭk/ · Me·chan·ic · IPA /mɪˈkænɪk/
01 n. The art of the application of the laws of motion or force to construction.
  1. 1.
    The art of the application of the laws of motion or force to construction.[Obs.]
  2. 2.
    A mechanician; an artisan; an artificer; one who practices any mechanic art; one skilled or employed in shaping and uniting materials, as wood, metal, etc., into any kind of structure, machine, or other object, requiring the use of tools, or instruments. Also, a technician who maintains or repairs machinery; as, an auto mechanic.
    “An art quite lost with our mechanics.” — Sir T. Browne.
02 a. Having to do with the application of the laws of motion in the art of constructing or making things; of or pertaining to mechanics; mechani…
  1. 1.
    Having to do with the application of the laws of motion in the art of constructing or making things; of or pertaining to mechanics; mechanical; as, the mechanic arts.
    “Mechanic slaves, With greasy aprons, rules, and hammers.” — Shak.
  2. 2.
    Of or pertaining to a mechanic or artificer, or to the class of artisans; hence, rude; common; vulgar.
    “To make a god, a hero, or a king Descend to a mechanic dialect.” — Roscommon.
    “Sometimes he ply'd the strong, mechanic tool.” — Thomson.
  3. 3.
    Base.[Obs.]