As a noun, a mechanic is a person who repairs and maintains machines, especially vehicles. As an adjective (less common), mechanic can relate to manual work or machinery.
From Old French “mecanique”, from Latin “mechanicus”, from Greek “mēkhanikos” meaning 'inventive, skillful with machines', from “mēkhanē” 'device, machine'. It originally had a broad sense relating to mechanical arts and devices. In modern use, it narrowed to skilled workers who fix engines and machines.
Mechanic and 'machine' are siblings, both born from the Greek word for contraptions and clever devices. In games and design, people talk about 'game mechanics'—a throwback to the older sense of the word, about how systems actually work.
Technical and manual trades like auto mechanics have historically been coded as male, with training pathways, advertising, and workplace cultures often discouraging women. This has shaped expectations about who is 'naturally' suited to mechanical work.
Use 'mechanic' as a gender-neutral role term and avoid assuming a mechanic is male; specify pronouns only when known or necessary.
["technician","service specialist"]
Women and non-binary mechanics have contributed significantly to automotive and mechanical innovation and maintenance, often facing exclusion from formal apprenticeships and recognition.
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