\Me*chan"ics\, n. [Cf. F. m['e]canique.]
That science, or branch of applied mathematics, which treats
of the action of forces on bodies.
Note: That part of mechanics which considers the action of
      forces in producing rest or equilibrium is called
      {statics}; that which relates to such action in
      producing motion is called {dynamics}. The term
      mechanics includes the action of forces on all bodies,
      whether solid, liquid, or gaseous. It is sometimes,
      however, and formerly was often, used distinctively of
      solid bodies only: The mechanics of liquid bodies is
      called also {hydrostatics}, or {hydrodynamics},
      according as the laws of rest or of motion are
      considered. The mechanics of gaseous bodies is called
      also {pneumatics}. The mechanics of fluids in motion,
      with special reference to the methods of obtaining from
      them useful results, constitutes {hydraulics}.
{Animal mechanics} (Physiol.), that portion of physiology
   which has for its object the investigation of the laws of
   equilibrium and motion in the animal body. The most
   important mechanical principle is that of the lever, the
   bones forming the arms of the levers, the contractile
   muscles the power, the joints the fulcra or points of
   support, while the weight of the body or of the individual
   limbs constitutes the weight or resistance.
{Applied mechanics}, the principles of abstract mechanics
   applied to human art; also, the practical application of
   the laws of matter and motion to the construction of
   machines and structures of all kinds.