In machining, how is a "lathe" defined?

A lathe is specifically defined as a machine tool that shapes materials by rotating a workpiece against a cutting tool. This fundamental functionality allows the lathe to produce a variety of geometries, including cylindrical shapes, grooves, and threads, depending on the design and settings used.

The lathe's operation involves the workpiece being securely held and rotated on its axis while the cutting tool is moved into contact with it, enabling the precise removal of material. This process is essential in metalworking, woodworking, and other material processing industries. The versatility of a lathe permits it to perform numerous operations such as turning, facing, boring, and tapering, which is why it is considered a critical machine tool in manufacturing.

In contrast, machines used for drilling holes focus solely on creating holes in materials and are not capable of the diverse range of shaping operations provided by a lathe. Additionally, devices measuring temperature and machines solely for grinding operations perform distinctly different functions unrelated to the core operation of a lathe.