engine /ˈɛnd͡ʒɪn/noun 12verb 3forms 3 noun12 •a machine that turns energy into movement, for example to make a car or a train go •The part of a car or other vehicle which provides the force for motion, now especially one powered by internal combustion. •A self-powered vehicle used for moving cars along a track. •A locomotive. •A software or hardware system responsible for a specific technical task (usually with qualifying word). •A person or group of people which influence a larger group; a driving force.In France, the parliament soon became a mere engine in the hands of a few high-born and ambitious men, who had nothing in common with its interests, which were those of the people. — 1834 •Anything used to effect a purpose; any device or contrivance; an agent.[...] their promises, entisements, oathes, tokens, and all these engines of lust [...]. — 1604 •A large construction used in warfare, such as a battering ram, catapult etc.Their warlike Engins and munition Exceed the forces of their martial men. — 1587 •(no longer used) A tool; a utensil or implement.Flattery must be the most powerful Argument that cou'd be used to Human Creatures. Making use of this bewitching Engine, they extoll'd the Excellency of our Nature above other Animals [...]. — 1714 •(no longer used) The result of cunning; something ingenious, a contrivance; (in negative senses) a plot, a scheme.Therefore this craftie engine he did frame, / Against his praise to stirre vp enmitye [...]. — 1590 •(no longer used) Ingenuity; cunning, trickery, guile. •(no longer used) Natural talent; genius. verb3 •To equip with an engine; said especially of steam vessels.Vessels are often built by one firm and engined by another. •(no longer used) To contrive; to put into action. •(no longer used) To assault with an engine. formsengined · engining · engines
