mechanical
UK: mɪˈkæn.ɪ.kəl | US: məˈkæn.ɪ.kəl
adj. relating to machinery or tools
adj. operated by or involving physical forces or motion
adj. (of behavior) automatic and lacking spontaneity
The word "mechanical" derives from the Greek "mēkhanikos" (pertaining to machines), via Latin "mechanicus" and Old French "mecanique." The root "mechanic" traces back to "mēkhanē" (Greek for "device" or "contrivance"), reflecting the ingenuity of early machines. The suffix "-al" (from Latin "-alis") standardizes it as an adjective. Over time, "mechanical" expanded from literal machine operations to metaphorically describe rigid, automated behavior.
The mechanical arm assembled the car parts with precision.
His mechanical repetition of the speech bored the audience.
Wind-up toys are powered by simple mechanical systems.
She solved the problem with mechanical efficiency.
The clock’s mechanical gears needed regular oiling.