'machination' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'machinatio', where 'machinare' meant 'to contrive' and 'machina' meant 'device' (borrowed from Greek).

'machination' changed from the Late Latin word 'machinatio' (from 'machinare') and via Old French/Medieval Latin entered Middle English as 'machination'.

Initially, it meant 'a contrivance or device', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a secret or deceitful plot or scheme'.