CultureSeptember 1, 2026

machinic

muh-SHIN-ik

Definition

Relating to, resembling, or characteristic of a machine or automated system, especially in a way that feels cold, repetitive, or devoid of human emotion.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek 'mēkhanē' (meaning machine, engine, or device) via the French 'machine,' the suffix '-ic' is added to denote something pertaining to the nature or function of machines.

In the news

The article uses the term to describe the dehumanizing nature of modern technology, specifically contrasting the 'machinic' superiority of agricultural drones with the diminished agency of the humans who operate them.

New Drone Gods: Cao Fei Follows the Tech to the Provinces

Read the full article ↗

Artforum

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