1. Machines or machine parts considered as a group.
2. The working parts of a particular machine.
3. A system of related elements that operate in a definable manner: diplomatic and political machinery.
4. 1. A device or means of achieving or effecting a result.
   2. A literary device for bringing about an effect, such as a happy ending.

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.