coin machine: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
B2Everyday, Business
Quick answer
What does “coin machine” mean?
A mechanical or electronic device that dispenses products or services in exchange for coins.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A mechanical or electronic device that dispenses products or services in exchange for coins.
In contemporary usage, the term can refer to any self-service machine that accepts cash, though originally it specified coin-operated mechanisms. In business, the term can metaphorically describe a predictable revenue-generating system.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
In the UK, 'coin machine' is less common than 'vending machine' or more specific terms like 'change machine'. In the US, it's also somewhat dated but still understood, often used to differentiate coin-only models from newer multi-payment devices.
Connotations
UK: Often implies an older or more basic machine. US: Can imply a machine specifically for coin exchange or arcade games, not just vending.
Frequency
Low to medium frequency in both varieties, being supplanted by more specific terms.
Grammar
How to Use “coin machine” in a Sentence
The coin machine [verb: accepted/ate/vended] [object: a can of drink/the tokens].We need to [verb: fix/restock] the coin machine [prepositional phrase: in the lobby/by the exit].Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “coin machine” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- [Not standard as a verb.]
American English
- [Not standard as a verb.]
adverb
British English
- [Not applicable.]
American English
- [Not applicable.]
adjective
British English
- [Not standard as an adjective. Use 'coin-operated'.]
American English
- [Not standard as an adjective. Use 'coin-operated'.]
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Refers to a low-overhead, automated point of sale. 'The car wash's revenue comes mainly from its three coin machines.'
Academic
Rare. Might appear in historical or sociological studies of automation and commerce.
Everyday
Used to locate a machine for drinks, snacks, or getting change. 'Is there a coin machine for the parking meter?'
Technical
Used in engineering or maintenance contexts specifying coin acceptance mechanisms, sensors, and hoppers.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “coin machine”
Strong
Neutral
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “coin machine”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “coin machine”
- Using 'coin machine' to describe a machine that only takes notes/bills (e.g., 'The ticket machine is a coin machine' when it isn't).
- Misspelling as 'coin mashine'.
- Using it as a verb (e.g., 'I'll coin machine a soda').
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
A 'vending machine' is a broader term for any automatic retail machine. A 'coin machine' specifically emphasises coin operation, though many vending machines are also coin machines.
Yes, in that specific context, it is often called a 'change machine' but 'coin machine' is also understood, especially if it exchanges notes/bills for coins.
The term is less common as many modern machines accept cards and contactless payments. However, it remains precise for machines that are coin-only.
Use more specific terms: 'vending machine' for snacks/drinks, 'change machine' for currency, 'slot machine' for gambling, or 'coin-operated machine' for clarity.
A mechanical or electronic device that dispenses products or services in exchange for coins.
Coin machine is usually everyday, business in register.
Coin machine: in British English it is pronounced /ˈkɔɪn məˌʃiːn/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈkɔɪn məˌʃin/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “[No common idioms specific to 'coin machine'.]”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of the sound 'COIN clinks' and the machine 'whirrs' – together they form the COIN MACHINE.
Conceptual Metaphor
A RELIABLE AUTOMATON / A MECHANICAL SELLER.
Practice
Quiz
Which scenario most accurately describes a 'coin machine'?