mechanic

American  

[muh-kan-ik] / məˈkæn ɪk /

noun

1. a person who repairs and maintains machinery, motors, etc..

   an automobile mechanic.

2. a worker who is skilled in the use of tools, machines, equipment, etc.

3. Slang. a person skilled in the dishonest handling of cards, dice, or other objects used in games of chance.

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mechanic British  

/ mɪˈkænɪk /

noun

1. a person skilled in maintaining or operating machinery, motors, etc

2. archaic a common labourer

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Etymology

Origin of mechanic

1350–1400; Middle English: mechanical < Latin mēchanicus < Greek mēchanikós, equivalent to mēchan ( ḗ ) machine + -ikos -ic

Example Sentences

She said she couldn’t afford the $1,700 a mechanic recently quoted her for car repairs, and worries whether she will have enough to retire in five years.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 6, 2026

One New York City mechanic is raking in $2,200 a night, off a single pothole.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 18, 2026

Baryalai Amiri, a 38-year-old mechanic, came to the site where his brother was admitted about 25 days ago.

From Barron's • Mar. 17, 2026

For the Ahmeds, who work during the day as a mechanic and a nail salon employee, life in their apartment has been reshaped by robot training.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 12, 2026

The mechanic became professional again but his tone was kinder.

From "East of Eden" by John Steinbeck

Related Words

• machinist
• operator
• worker