engine
/ˈɛndʒɪn/
noun
Origin
Latin
ingenium — innate quality, talent, genius
Overview
Meaning Now
- A machine with moving parts that converts power into motion.
- A mechanical device or apparatus used for a specific purpose, such as a fire engine.
- An instrument or agent of action; a means by which something is achieved.
Literal older meaning
innate genius, talent, or skill
Language path
Latin → Old French → English
Earliest form
engin
Earliest period
14th century
Journey
The term originally referred to human 'ingenuity' (which shares the same etymological root). In medieval times, 'engines' were complex devices, especially those used in warfare, such as catapults or battering rams. The Industrial Revolution cemented its modern association with steam-powered machinery.
Evolution
- Latin
ingenium
“innate quality, nature, or mental capacity”
- Old French
engin
“mechanical device, ingenuity, or war machine”
Transition from internal mental quality to external mechanical application.
- Middle English
engin
“a device, tool, or siege weapon”
- Modern English
engine
“a source of mechanical power”
Specialization to machines powered by fuel or steam.
Connections
Word parts
in-
prefix
in
-gignere
root
to beget or produce
Related across languages
French
engin
device, machine
Italian
ingegno
genius, ingenuity
Related words
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External references use DefinedTerm semantics.