The term "molecular assembler" refers to a hypothetical machine capable of building complex structures from individual atoms and molecules. While this concept is still in the realm of science fiction, scientists have come up with several alternative names for such a device. Some of the most commonly used synonyms for a molecular assembler include molecular manufacturing system, nanobot factory, atom-by-atom builder, and nanoscale fabricator. Other terms that have been proposed in the past include molecular constructor, nanoscale assembler, and atomic manipulator. While these terms may vary in their exact meaning and connotations, they all describe a machine capable of manipulating matter at the molecular level to create new materials and devices.