SportsJuly 15, 2026

machinist

/məˈʃɪnɪst/

Definition

A skilled worker who operates and maintains machinery, particularly in a factory or industrial setting.

Etymology

The word derives from the French 'machiniste,' which comes from 'machine' (a device or contrivance) and the Latin 'machina.' It entered English in the 18th century to describe someone who works with or constructs machines.

In the news

The word is used to describe Diane Horton Deal's father, Lonnie, who worked as a skilled machinist for Cone Mills. It highlights his professional role within the industrial community of China Grove.

Sports obituary: Diane Horton Deal was one of South’s first basketball stars

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Salisbury Post

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