adj

automatic

aw-tuh-MAT-ihk

adj

Operating by itself, without a person directly controlling it.

"The doors open automatically when you approach them."

"I drive an automatic car, so I never have to change gears."

Done without conscious thought, as a habit or reflex.

"Braking when a light turns red becomes automatic after enough practice."

noun

A vehicle with an automatic transmission, or a self-loading firearm.

"He traded in his manual for an automatic last year."

How to Use Automatic

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishHappening or working by itself, without someone directly controlling it each time.

Common pairings

automatic transmission automatic response automatic weapon

more automatic comparative, automatics plural, most automatic superlative, dubious superlative

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I drive an _____ car, so I never have to change gears.

From Greek autómatos ("self-moving, acting of its own accord"), via Latin automatum and New Latin automaticus.

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