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noun B1 Intermediate Uncommon

mechanic

mih-KA-nihk

Mechanic (noun) means a person skilled in repairing or maintaining machines, especially motor vehicles. Example: “The mechanic replaced the car's brake pads in under an hour.”

noun
1
A person skilled in repairing or maintaining machines, especially motor vehicles.
"The mechanic replaced the car's brake pads in under an hour."
2
A specific rule or system that governs how something, especially a game, functions.
"The game's crafting mechanic keeps players engaged for hours."

How to use mechanic

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishSomeone who fixes machines (especially cars), or a working rule within a system like a game.

Common pairings
car mechanic auto mechanic game mechanic

Word forms

mechanics plural

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Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

The _____ replaced the car's brake pads in under an hour.

Etymology

From Middle English mekanyk, from Old French mecanique, from Latin mechanicus, from Greek mēkhanikós ("relating to machines").

Origin: Latin

Related words

Rhymes for mechanic

See all rhymes for mechanic →

Frequently asked questions

What does “mechanic” mean?

The word “mechanic” means a person skilled in repairing or maintaining machines, especially motor vehicles. In plain terms, someone who fixes machines (especially cars), or a working rule within a system like a game.

How do you pronounce “mechanic”?

“Mechanic” is pronounced mih-KA-nihk (/mɪˈkænɪk/ in IPA).

How do you use “mechanic” in a sentence?

Here is “mechanic” used in a sentence: “The mechanic replaced the car's brake pads in under an hour.”

What part of speech is “mechanic”?

“Mechanic” is a noun.

Where does the word “mechanic” come from?

The word “mechanic” comes from Latin. From Middle English mekanyk, from Old French mecanique, from Latin mechanicus, from Greek mēkhanikós ("relating to machines").

Is “mechanic” a common word?

“Mechanic” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.

How many meanings does “mechanic” have?

“Mechanic” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a person skilled in repairing or maintaining machines, especially motor vehicles.

What is the difference between a mechanic and a technician?

A mechanic typically works with hands-on repair and maintenance of mechanical systems, especially motor vehicles, using tools to fix physical components. A technician often works with more specialized or electronic equipment and may focus on diagnostics and calibration rather than manual repair.

What does mechanic mean in gaming?

In gaming, a mechanic refers to a specific rule or system that governs how the game functions, such as jumping, scoring, or resource management. This usage is distinct from the traditional meaning of a person who repairs machines.

Do you need a license to be a mechanic?

Requirements vary by location and specialty, but many regions require mechanics who work on vehicles to hold certification or a license demonstrating their skill in repair and maintenance. Standards typically ensure the mechanic can safely and competently service motor vehicles.

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Definitions: FreeDict original editorial