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Dictionary definition of “Goldberg”

Goldberg

n. a complicated machine or machine part. Also (Rube) Goldberg device, Goldberg machine. Subjects:
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Citations: 1938-39 Mendelowitz Lexicon of Trade Jargon “Machinists” p. 21: Rube Goldberg. Automatic machine; probably derived from this well known cartoonist’s humorous drawings of intricate but useless machinery. *1938-39 Mendelowitz @ Wisc., Ohio, N.Y., Ind., Mich., Ala. Lexicon of Trade Jargon “Machinists’ Slang and Jargon [“add machinists”]” p. 3: Goldberg. Cheap, complicated machine piece. *1938-39 Lexicon of Trade Jargon “Material for Trade, Slang and Jargon Dictionary: Sheet Metal Workers” (in U.S. Navy Yard, Philadelphia, Pa.) p. 10: Goldberg. Cheap, complicated pieces of mechanism.
Posted 25 Jun 05 | Permalink | Tell a Friend

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