Definition of "engine" in English

noun

1. A large construction used in warfare, such as a battering ram, catapult etc.

2. (now archaic) A tool; a utensil or implement.

3. A complex mechanical device which converts energy into useful motion or physical effects.

4. A person or group of people which influence a larger group; a driving force.

5. The part of a car or other vehicle which provides the force for motion, now especially one powered by internal combustion.

6. A self-powered vehicle used for moving cars along a track.

7. (computing) A software or hardware system responsible for a specific technical task (usually with qualifying word).

   • a graphics engine
   • a physics engine

8. (obsolete) Ingenuity; cunning, trickery, guile.

9. (obsolete) The result of cunning; something ingenious, a contrivance; (in negative senses) a plot, a scheme.

10. (obsolete) Natural talent; genius.

11. Anything used to effect a purpose; any device or contrivance; an agent.

verb

1. (transitive, dated) To equip with an engine; said especially of steam vessels.

   • Vessels are often built by one firm and engined by another.

2. (transitive, obsolete) To assault with an engine.

3. (transitive, obsolete) To contrive; to put into action.