en·gine (ĕn'jĭn)
n.

1. 1. A machine that converts energy into mechanical force or motion.
   2. Such a machine distinguished from an electric, spring-driven, or hydraulic motor by its use of a fuel.
2. 1. A mechanical appliance, instrument, or tool: engines of war.
   2. An agent, instrument, or means of accomplishment.
3. A locomotive.
4. A fire engine.
5. Computer Science. A search engine.

tr.v., -gined, -gin·ing, -gines.
To equip with an engine or engines.

[Middle English engin, skill, machine, from Old French, innate ability, from Latin ingenium.]

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The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition Copyright © 2007, 2000 by Houghton Mifflin Company. Updated in 2009. Published by Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved.

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