mecha
/ˈmɛkə/noun (plural same or mechas)
(In anime, manga, etc.) a large armoured robot, typically controlled by a person riding inside the robot itself: I loved the design of the giant mecha, and how it was integrated into the look of the show [as modifier]: a series of mecha battles that are action-packed...
- They got to work on a revised finale, this time offering mainstream audiences all the mecha action they demanded.
- A team of ace pilots in convertible mecha take to the skies in order to save the world.
- The mecha action is really secondary to the show.
Origin
1980s: Japanese meka, shortened from mekanizumu 'mechanism', mekanikaru 'mechanical', etc.