A machine used to process workpieces made of metal or other solid materials through methods such as drilling, milling, or turning.
example
In der Fabrikhalle stehen mehrere computergesteuerte Werkzeugmaschinen.
There are several computer-controlled machine tools in the factory hall.
Usage tips
Compound word
The word is made up of 'Werkzeug' (tool), the linking -s, and 'Maschine' (machine). So it literally describes a machine that serves like a tool for processing materials.
EXAMPLE
Diese Firma stellt hochmoderne Werkzeugmaschinen für die Autoindustrie her.
This company manufactures state-of-the-art machine tools for the automotive industry.
Typical collocations
Common verbs used in connection with this word are 'eine Werkzeugmaschine bedienen' (to operate a machine tool), 'programmieren' (to program), or 'warten' (to maintain). Typical adjectives are 'computergesteuert' (computer-controlled), 'präzise' (precise), or 'modern' (modern).
EXAMPLE
Der Facharbeiter kann die neue, computergesteuerte Werkzeugmaschine bedienen.
The skilled worker can operate the new, computer-controlled machine tool.
Register: technical language
'Werkzeugmaschine' (machine tool) is a technical term from industry, mechanical engineering, and manufacturing technology. It is used primarily in technical or professional contexts.
EXAMPLE
Im Ingenieurstudium lernten wir die Grundlagen der Werkzeugmaschinen.
In engineering studies, we learned the basics of machine tools.
Compare with
confusable
Werkzeugmaschine vs Werkzeug
tool
'das Werkzeug' and 'die Werkzeugmaschine' both have to do with working with materials, but they are not the same thing. A 'Werkzeug' is usually an object you use by hand, for example a hammer or pliers. A 'Werkzeugmaschine' is a large or technical machine that processes workpieces, for example by drilling, milling, or turning. The words can be confused because they share the word part 'Werkzeug'. In everyday life and for small repairs, people usually say 'Werkzeug'. In workshops or factories, when a machine processes material precisely, 'Werkzeugmaschine' is correct.
Werkzeugmaschine
In der Werkstatt steht eine neue Werkzeugmaschine für Metallteile.
There is a new machine tool for metal parts in the workshop.
Werkzeug
Beim Umzug liegt das Werkzeug immer griffbereit im Flur.
During the move, the tools are always kept within easy reach in the hallway.