mechanize

especially British, mech·a·nise

[mek-uh-nahyz]

verb (used with object)

mechanized, mechanizing 

1. to make mechanical.

2. to operate or perform by or as if by machinery.

3. to introduce machinery into (an industry, enterprise, etc.), especially in order to replace manual labor.

4. Military.,  to equip with tanks and other armored vehicles.

mechanize

/ ˈmɛkəˌnaɪz /

verb

1. to equip (a factory, industry, etc) with machinery

2. to make mechanical, automatic, or monotonous

3. to equip (an army, etc) with motorized or armoured vehicles

Other Word Forms

• mechanization noun
• mechanizer noun
• unmechanized adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of mechanize¹

First recorded in 1695–1705; mechan(ic) + -ize

Example Sentences

Ms. Casey’s book restores craftsmanship to its central place in the making of beautiful buildings, a timely reminder as our own world moves toward ever more mechanized production.

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As America moved to mechanized textile mills, telegraphs and urbanization, that created demand for factory workers, machinists and communications clerks.

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When he noticed the mechanized compounds of the object, Stais brought it to the attention of the museum’s archaeologists.

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As Mr. Century emphasizes, it was the only military mission that sought to rescue Jews from Europe, even though the mechanized liquidation of Jews was well known to Allied leaders.

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The lift then gradually made its way down the mechanized crane.

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Related Words

• industrialize 
• motorize