A mechanic is someone who fixes and maintains machines, especially cars, trucks, and other vehicles. When your family's car makes a strange noise or won't start, you take it to a mechanic who can diagnose the problem and repair it. A good mechanic knows how engines work, understands electrical systems, and can figure out why something isn't running properly.

The word comes from the Greek word for “machine,” and mechanics do work that requires both technical knowledge and hands-on skill. Some mechanics specialize in certain types of vehicles: motorcycle mechanics, aircraft mechanics, or diesel mechanics who work on large trucks and construction equipment. A marine mechanic repairs boat engines, while a small engine mechanic might fix lawnmowers and chainsaws.

The word also has another meaning in everyday language. In games, sports, or other activities, a mechanic is a rule or method that makes something work. Video game designers talk about game mechanics, meaning the specific rules and systems that control how players interact with the game. A teacher might discuss the mechanics of writing, referring to technical elements like grammar, spelling, and punctuation.