automatic
6 synonyms and 0 antonyms for automatic, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Adj — Operating by itself, without a person directly controlling it.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
How to use automatic
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
From Greek autómatos ("self-moving, acting of its own accord"), via Latin automatum and New Latin automaticus.
Full origin of automatic →Frequently asked questions
What does “automatic” mean?
The word “automatic” means operating by itself, without a person directly controlling it. In plain terms, happening or working by itself, without someone directly controlling it each time.
How do you pronounce “automatic”?
“Automatic” is pronounced aw-tuh-MAT-ihk (/ˌɔː.təˈmæt.ɪk/ in IPA).
How do you use “automatic” in a sentence?
Here is “automatic” used in a sentence: “The doors open automatically when you approach them.”
What part of speech is “automatic”?
Depending on how it is used, “automatic” can be an adjective and a noun.
Where does the word “automatic” come from?
The word “automatic” comes from New Latin. From Greek autómatos ("self-moving, acting of its own accord"), via Latin automatum and New Latin automaticus.
Is “automatic” a common word?
“Automatic” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A2 level.
How many meanings does “automatic” have?
“Automatic” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: operating by itself, without a person directly controlling it.
What is the difference between 'automatic' and 'automated'?
'Automatic' describes something that operates by itself without a person directly controlling it, and can also mean done without conscious thought. 'Automated' usually describes a process or system that has been deliberately converted to run by machines, often replacing manual work.
What is the difference between 'automatic' and 'manual'?
'Automatic' means operating by itself without direct human control, while 'manual' means operated or done by hand. With cars, an automatic changes gears by itself, whereas a manual requires the driver to change gears using a clutch and gearstick.
What are common collocations with 'automatic'?
Common collocations include 'automatic transmission', 'automatic doors', 'automatic response', 'automatic update', and 'on automatic pilot'. The phrase 'on automatic pilot' figuratively describes doing something routinely, without paying full attention.