German word

mechanisch

Pronunciation

IPA/meˈçaːnɪʃ/

Meaning

  • adjectiveautomatic

Example

Seine mechanische Reaktion überraschte mich nicht.

His automatic reaction did not surprise me.

Illustration for mechanisch (automatic)

More examples

Seine Stimme klang mechanisch, fast ohne Gefühlsnuance.

His voice sounded mechanical, with almost no emotional nuance.

Core concept

A repeated movement runs like a machine, without personal choice or feeling.

Common phrases

  • klingt mechanisch

    sounds mechanical

  • wirkt mechanisch

    seems mechanical

Similar words

automatisch: Taking place without deliberate thought or conscious effort.
monoton: Repeating without variation in tone, style, or method.
maschinell: Produced or operated by machinery, with little human character.
unpersönlich: Detached and lacking warmth, personality, or individual character.

Definition in German

eine Handlung oder Bewegung, die automatisch, regelmäßig und ohne erkennbaren Willen oder Gefühl abläuft

Word origin

Mechanisch comes through Latin mechanicus from Greek mechanikos, meaning related to a machine or device, and German also uses it for automatic or unfeeling actions.

Usage tips

  • For human behavior, mechanisch often suggests a stiff or emotionless response, not merely efficient automation.

Other meanings

  • mechanicaladjective

Opposites

Related words

  • Mechanismusmechanismnoun
  • Mechanisierungmechanizationnoun

Word lists with this word