-_nə̇st noun
( -s )
Etymology: probably from French machiniste, from machine + -iste -ist
1.
a.
(1) archaic : an inventor or builder of machines
(2) : a worker who fabricates, assembles, or repairs machinery
b. : a craftsman skilled in the use of machine tools — sometimes distinguished from machine operator
c. : machine operator
2. archaic : a person in charge of the mechanical aspects of a theatrical production (as lighting, technical machines, and handling of scenery)
3. : a member of a political machine
4.
a. : machinist's mate
b. : a warrant officer (as in the United States Navy) whose specialty is supervision of the operation, maintenance, and repair of machinery and engines