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vending machine

noun

  1. machine which automatically dispenses products to customers after payment
L1095290 on Wikidata ↗

Wiktionary

Pronunciation: /ˈvɛndɪŋ məˌʃiːn/

noun

Etymology: This name for such a machine is attested since 1889. The concept of such a machine is centuries older (for more, see Wikipedia at vending machine § History).

  1. An automatic machine that dispenses merchandise (often food or beverages) in return for payment (originally coins; now also often paper money, credit cards, and wirelessly via digital payment apps).

    Meronyms: bill acceptor, card swipe, change slot, coin return, coin slot, flavor strip

    It is not clear to all operators of vending machines, though, that their future lies in dispensing meals, rather than snacks or candy.