Mechanical

Definition

Relating to machinery or tools and the physical laws and principles they operate under.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective
• Noun (less common)

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /məˈkænɪkəl/
• Respelling: muh-KAN-i-kuhl (with "muh" as in "sofa," "KAN" as in "can," "i" as in "sit," and "kuhl" as in "cuddle")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /məˈkænɪkəl/
• Respelling: muh-KAN-i-kuhl (with "muh" as in "sofa," "KAN" as in "can," "i" as in "sit," and "kuhl" as in "cuddle")

In both dialects, "mechanical" places the primary stress on the second syllable, "KAN." The pronunciation is the same across both American and British English, focusing on the clear articulation of "muh-KAN-i-kuhl."

Etymology

Derived from Latin "mechanicus", meaning "pertaining to machines". The term can be traced back to Ancient Greek "μηχανικός" (mēkhanikós) which refers to the machinery or the arts of a mechanic.

Derivatives

• Mechanically
• Mechanic (related noun)
• Mechanicship
• Mechanicalness
• Mechanical engineer

Synonyms

• Automated
• Machine-driven
• Motorized

Antonyms

• Manual
• Natural
• Organic

Usage

• The watch has a mechanical movement that requires winding.
• His response seemed purely mechanical, without any emotion.

Related Terms

• Engineering
• Robot
• Device
• Gadget
• Mechanics

Detailed Definition

Adjective

• Pertaining to or involving machinery or tools.
• Example: The car has a mechanical fault that needs fixing.

• Produced or operated by a machine or machinery.
• Example: The mechanical clock needs to be wound regularly.

• Lacking spontaneity, originality, or individuality; done routinely or as a habit.
• Example: He gave a mechanical smile as he greeted the guests.

Noun (less common)

• A mechanical object, device, or part.
• Example: The clock's mechanicals are intricate and require precision.