noun
Common
bot
bot
Bot (noun) means a computer program that automatically performs a task, especially a repetitive one, sometimes appearing to be a real user online. Example: “Half the accounts replying to the post were bots.”
noun
1
A computer program that automatically performs a task, especially a repetitive one, sometimes appearing to be a real user online.
"Half the accounts replying to the post were bots."
"The company uses a chat bot to answer basic customer questions."
"Spam bots filled the comment section with links before anyone could remove them."
2
A computer-controlled character in a video game, standing in for a human player.
"He practiced against bots before playing online."
"The match was full of bots because not enough people had joined."
"Add three bots to the lobby if you want a quicker practice game."
3
(informal) An unskilled or clueless player, used as an insult in gaming.
"Stop playing like a bot and watch the map."
"That bot ran straight into the trap again and cost us the round."
"Quit being such a bot and follow your team for once!"
How to use bot
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishAn automated program that acts on its own — replying, posting, or playing a game — often standing in for a human.
When to use it
The insulting gaming sense ("you're such a bot") is informal slang.
Common pairings
chat bot
spam bot
social media bot
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Word forms
- Plural
- bots
- Third person singular
- bots
- Past tense
- botted
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
Half the accounts replying to the post were _____.
Etymology
The origin is unknown. It may be a modification of Scottish Gaelic boiteag ("maggot"), but since the word already existed in Middle English, borrowing in the reverse direction is more likely. It may also come from Middle Low German [Term?].
Synonyms
View more →Related words
Frequently asked questions
What does “bot” mean?
The word “bot” means a computer program that automatically performs a task, especially a repetitive one, sometimes appearing to be a real user online. In plain terms, an automated program that acts on its own — replying, posting, or playing a game — often standing in for a human.
How do you pronounce “bot”?
“Bot” is pronounced bot (/bɑt/ in IPA).
How do you use “bot” in a sentence?
Here is “bot” used in a sentence: “Half the accounts replying to the post were bots.”
What part of speech is “bot”?
“Bot” is a noun.
Is “bot” a common word?
“Bot” is a fairly common word in modern English.
How many meanings does “bot” have?
“Bot” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a computer program that automatically performs a task, especially a repetitive one, sometimes appearing to be a real user online.
What is the difference between a bot and a script?
A script is a set of instructions that runs a task and then stops, while a bot is typically designed to run continuously or repeatedly, often interacting with users or systems as if it were a person. Bots are commonly built to mimic real users online, whereas scripts are usually just automation tools without that social element.
What does it mean to call someone a bot in gaming?
In gaming slang, calling someone a bot is an insult meaning they are playing poorly or clumsily, as if they were an unskilled computer-controlled character rather than a real, competent player. It is used informally and is considered mildly derogatory.
What is the difference between a bot and an NPC in video games?
A bot is a computer-controlled character that typically stands in for a human player, often in multiplayer modes when not enough real players are available. An NPC (non-player character) is a broader term for any computer-controlled character, including ones with fixed roles like shopkeepers or quest-givers who are not meant to replace a human.
Are all bots online harmful or fake accounts?
No, not all bots are harmful; many perform legitimate repetitive tasks such as answering customer questions or moderating content. The term simply describes a computer program that automates a task, and its intent depends on how it is used.
