Noah Webster
Engine
EN'GINE, noun [Latin ingenium.]
1. In mechanics, a compound machine, or artificial instrument, composed of different parts, and intended to produce some effect by the help of the mechanical powers; as a pump, a windlas, a capstan, a fire engine a steam engine
2. A military machine; as a battering ram, etc.
3. Any instrument; that by which any effect is produced. An arrow, a sword, a musket is an engine of death.
4. A machine for throwing water to extinguish fire.
5. Means; any thing used to effect a purpose.
6. An agent for another; usually in an ill sense.