simple machine

noun

: any of various elementary mechanisms formerly considered as the elements of which all machines are composed and including the lever, the wheel and axle, the pulley, the inclined plane, the wedge, and the screw

Examples of simple machine in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web The antithesis to the complicated and the high-tech, such simple machines represent the best of what driving can be. Charlie Thomas, Robb Report, 12 Jan. 2024 Enlarge / The McDonald's ice cream machine is a relatively simple machine. Kevin Purdy, Ars Technica, 29 Aug. 2023 Like all Royal Enfields, the Shotgun 650 is a relatively simple machine, without rider modes, elaborate tech, or large LCD screens. Charlie Thomas, Robb Report, 23 Jan. 2024 Building smaller models is good for privacy In his research, Zou and his collaborators did come up with some ways that data can be deleted from simple machine learning models that are based on a technique known as clustering without compromising the entire model. Stephen Pastis, Fortune, 30 Aug. 2023 Since this is a relatively simple machine, there’s just one button to press to reach a satisfactory blend for any of your smoothies or shakes. Melanie Rud, Peoplemag, 10 Aug. 2023 Nowadays, arcades are paying almost double that for simple machines, Malone said. Irving Mejia-Hilario, Dallas News, 9 Aug. 2023 The inclusion of automatic shutoff was a welcome addition to this simple machine and the iron was still able to hold a large amount of water despite its petite size. Janine Henni, Peoplemag, 9 July 2023 Viewed through a modern lens, this is a simple machine. Tony Quiroga, Car and Driver, 6 June 2023

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'simple machine.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1702, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of simple machine was in 1702

Dictionary Entries Near simple machine

Cite this Entry

“Simple machine.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/simple%20machine. Accessed 29 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

simple machine

noun
: any of various elementary devices formerly considered as the elements of which all machines are composed and including the lever, the wheel and axle, the pulley, the inclined plane, the wedge, and the screw
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