mechanical etymology

Etymology

The word "mechanical" derives from the Greek word "μηχανικός" (mêchanikos), which means "of or relating to machinery." The term was first used in the 5th century BCE by the Greek philosopher Aristotle to describe devices that could perform tasks without human intervention.

Meaning

"Mechanical" refers to anything related to the principles of mechanics. Mechanics is the branch of physics that deals with the behavior of physical bodies under the action of forces. Mechanical devices are designed to utilize the principles of mechanics to perform specific functions.

Origin

The concept of mechanical devices can be traced back to ancient times. The earliest known mechanical inventions include the wheel, the lever, and the pulley. These simple machines were used to amplify the force exerted by humans or animals to perform various tasks.

As civilizations advanced, mechanical devices became more complex and sophisticated. The invention of the steam engine in the 18th century revolutionized transportation and industry. In the 19th and 20th centuries, the development of internal combustion engines, electric motors, and electronics further expanded the scope of mechanical engineering.

Today, mechanical engineering is a vital field that encompasses a wide range of applications, including the design, analysis, production, and operation of machines, systems, and components. Mechanical engineers play a crucial role in the development and maintenance of infrastructure, transportation, energy, and manufacturing systems.

mechanical relate terms

  • mechanic

  • mechanical

    Etymology The word mechanical derives from the Greek word μηχανικός mêchan

  • machine

    Etymology of Machine The word machine originates from the Greek term mekhane which

  • technical

    Etymology of Technical Origin Greek tekhnikos pertaining to art skill or craft

  • canned

    Etymology The word canned comes from the Latin root canna meaning reed and the O

  • linkage

    Etymology Middle English linkage from Old French linkage from Latin ligatio ligatio

  • gimcrack

    Etymology Gim Old English trickery deceit wile Crack Middle English a boastf

  • routine

    Etymology The word routine comes from the French word routinier which in turn deriv

  • engine

    Etymology Latin ingenium innate ability French engin device Meaning An engi

  • constructivism

    Etymology Latin construere to build to construct ism a doctrine or theory M

  • obliterate

    Etymology The word obliterate derives from the Latin verb obliterare meaning to blo

  • maverick

    Etymology Late 19th century probably from Maverick County Texas named after Samuel A

  • triage

    Etymology The word triage originates from the French verb trier which means to sort