Definition

To engage in secret or cunning plans, often to achieve a specific goal.

Example

They machinate to gain control over the company.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Have you noticed how some people just love to machinate behind the scenes?

Yeah, it's like they enjoy plotting things without anyone knowing.

I wonder what they think they'll gain from all that machinate activity.

Probably just a sense of control or power over situations.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

To plan or scheme in a clever or secret way, often for a specific purpose or to achieve a particular goal.

Example

They machinated a plan to take over the company.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Have you ever thought about how people machinate their plans behind the scenes?

Yeah, it's fascinating to see how some schemes unfold.

I wonder what goes through their minds when they machinate these plots.

Root Explanation

Machinate → It is formed from "machinari" (meaning to devise or contrive) and the suffix "-ate" (indicating to make or perform). The word "machinate" means to devise or plan, often with a sense of scheming or plotting.

Memory Tip

Think of devising a plan or scheme when you hear 'machinate' — it comes from 'machinari', which means to devise.

Visually Confused Words