What is the primary function of a lathe?

• A. A machine for shaping wood, metal or other materials by means of a rotating drive.
• B. A machine for shaping by moving the tool linearly against the workpiece.
• C. A device for drilling holes.
• D. A grinder for finishing surfaces.

Answer: (A)

A lathe shapes a workpiece by mounting it in a spindle that rotates, while a cutting tool is fed to remove material. That rotating drive is the defining feature, letting the tool produce cylindrical or conical forms through turning, facing, threading, and boring. This contrasts with other processes where the tool or cutter moves against a stationary piece (like milling or shaping), or where a drill is used to create holes, or a grinder is used to finish surfaces. So the primary function is shaping by rotating the workpiece while material is removed by the cutting tool.