automation
4 synonyms for automation, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — Using machines, computers, or other technology to do tasks that people used to do by hand.
Synonyms
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
How to use automation
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
office automation
automation software
increase automation
Etymology
Built from automatic plus -ion; the word is credited to Ford executive Delmar S. Harder, who coined it in the 1940s to describe self-operating factory machinery.
Full origin of automation →Frequently asked questions
What does “automation” mean?
The word “automation” means using machines, computers, or other technology to do tasks that people used to do by hand. In plain terms, getting machines or software to do a job instead of a human doing it manually.
How do you pronounce “automation”?
“Automation” is pronounced aw-tuh-MAY-shuhn (/ˌɔ.təˈmeɪ.ʃən/ in IPA).
How do you use “automation” in a sentence?
Here is “automation” used in a sentence: “The factory invested heavily in automation to speed up production.”
What part of speech is “automation”?
“Automation” is a noun.
Where does the word “automation” come from?
The word “automation” dates back to around 1940. Built from automatic plus -ion; the word is credited to Ford executive Delmar S. Harder, who coined it in the 1940s to describe self-operating factory machinery.
Is “automation” a common word?
“Automation” is an uncommon word in modern English.
What is the difference between automation and mechanization?
Mechanization refers to replacing human or animal physical labor with machines, while automation goes further by using technology, including computers and software, to control and run processes with minimal human involvement. Automation often includes decision-making or monitoring functions that mechanization does not.
What industries commonly use automation?
Automation is widely used in manufacturing, customer service, data processing, and logistics, wherever repetitive tasks previously done by hand can be handled by machines or software. It is used to increase speed, consistency, and efficiency.
Does automation always mean replacing human workers?
Not necessarily. While automation can replace tasks people used to do by hand, it is often used to handle repetitive or time-consuming work so people can focus on tasks that require judgment or creativity.
