A "Machine" that performs a rediculous amount of subtasks to do a seemingly simple task. Examples include a bowling ball catapulting a thumbtack into a balloon, bursting it, scaring the nearby cat who jumps off the scale, tipping it over, etc, etc, etc.

Invented by cartoonist/engineer Rube Goldberg, who used to draw these machines weekly for newspapers. For an interactive version (And a mighty fine puzzle game to boot), try The Incredible Machine.