Definition

Noun: A vending machine is an automated machine that dispenses items such as snacks, beverages, or other small goods to consumers after money, a credit card, or a special token is inserted into it. The machine operates without a human cashier.

Examples

• I bought a bottle of water from the vending machine in the hallway.
• The office has a vending machine that sells chips and candy.
• Please use exact change for the vending machine.

Advanced Usage

• "to be out of order": A common phrase used when a vending machine is not working.
  • The soda vending machine is out of order.
• "to stock/restock a vending machine": Refers to the act of filling the machine with new products.
  • A technician comes every Tuesday to restock the vending machines.

Variants and Related Words

• Vendor (n): While "vendor" is a general term for a seller, it is sometimes used informally to mean a vending machine, especially in older usage.
• Slot machine (n): A gambling machine operated by inserting coins and pulling a handle. While the reference definition uses this term, "vending machine" is specifically for selling goods, not for gambling.

Synonyms

• Automatic retail machine: A more formal, descriptive synonym.
• Dispenser: A general term for a device that distributes a specific item (e.g., soap dispenser, towel dispenser). A vending machine is a type of commercial dispenser.

Related Phrases

• Vending machine food: Refers to the types of snacks and drinks typically available from such machines.
  • I'm tired of eating vending machine food for lunch.

Noun

1. a slot machine for selling goods