deus ex machina
//ˈdɛ.us ˈɛks maˈxi.na//
Polishadvnoun
Definitions
- 1.literarydeus ex machina (suddenly, unexpectedly, and without prior indications)
- 2.literarydeus ex machina (plot resolution in ancient tragedy involving the sudden and unexpected appearance of a deity)
- 3.literarydeus ex machina (deity in Greek and Roman drama who was brought in by stage machinery to intervene in a difficult situation)
- 4.literarydeus ex machina (unexpected saviour)
- 5.literarydeus ex machina (contrived plot resolution)
Etymology
Unadapted borrowing from Latin deus ex māchinā, itself a calque of Ancient Greek ἀπὸ μηχανῆς θεός (apò mēkhanês theós).