máquina
“máquina” means “machine” in Spanish. It has 3 different meanings depending on context:
machine, apparatus
Also: appliance
📝 In Action
Mi abuela todavía usa una máquina de coser muy antigua.
A1My grandmother still uses a very old sewing machine.
Puse dinero en la máquina de bebidas, pero no salió nada.
A2I put money in the drinks machine, but nothing came out.
engine, motor
📝 In Action
El bote perdió potencia porque la máquina se sobrecalentó.
B1The boat lost power because the engine overheated.
Necesitamos un motor más potente para esta máquina industrial.
B2We need a more powerful motor for this industrial machine.
ace, powerhouse
Also: whiz
📝 In Action
Pedro terminó el proyecto en dos horas. ¡Es una máquina!
B2Pedro finished the project in two hours. He's an ace!
Nuestra nueva programadora es una máquina; escribe código rapidísimo.
C1Our new programmer is a powerhouse; she writes code incredibly fast.
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: máquina
Question 1 of 2
Which sentence uses 'máquina' in its figurative, informal sense?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
Comes from the Latin word *machina*, which itself was borrowed from the ancient Greek word *makhana*. This history emphasizes the idea of a clever invention or contrivance designed to help people work.
First recorded: Medieval Latin period (c. 10th-12th century)
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
If I am complimenting a male friend, should I use 'el máquina' or 'la máquina'?
You must use 'la máquina' (Ella/Él es una máquina). 'Máquina' is a feminine noun, and its gender never changes, even if the person you are referring to is male. It's the noun that is feminine, not the person.
Does 'máquina' always mean a complex piece of equipment?
Generally, yes. While you *could* technically call a simple device a 'máquina,' Spanish speakers usually use 'aparato' or 'dispositivo' for small gadgets. 'Máquina' implies size, power, or complexity (like a copier, car engine, or industrial loom).