French word

engin

Pronunciation

IPA/ɑ̃ʒɛ̃/

Meaning

  • masculine nounmachine

Example

L'engin ne fonctionne plus.

The machine no longer works.

Illustration for engin (machine)

More examples

L'engin de chantier bloque la rue.

The construction equipment is blocking the street.

Core concept

A substantial mechanical device or vehicle whose parts work together as one working unit.

Common phrases

  • engin de chantier

    construction equipment

Similar words

machine: A power-driven device used for work or processing.
appareil: A purpose-built device or instrument for a specific use.
véhicule: A conveyance for transporting people or items.
objet: A touchable physical thing or implement.

Definition in French

Dispositif, souvent mécanique et mobile, composé de pièces assemblées pour accomplir une fonction précise.

Word origin

The noun developed from Old French engin, borrowed from Latin ingenium, meaning inventive ability or a clever device, and is related etymologically to English engine.

Usage tips

  • In current French, engin often suggests a conspicuous machine, vehicle, or piece of equipment, while appareil is more neutral for many ordinary devices.

Other meanings

  • devicenoun
  • instrumentnoun
  • vehiclenoun

Word lists with this word