robot

[roh-bot]

noun

1. a machine that resembles a human and does mechanical, routine tasks on command.

2. a person who acts and responds in a mechanical, routine manner, usually subject to another's will; automaton.

3. any machine or mechanical device that operates automatically with humanlike skill.

adjective

1. operating automatically.

   a robot train operating between airline terminals.

robot

/ ˈrəʊbɒt /

noun

1. any automated machine programmed to perform specific mechanical functions in the manner of a man

2. (modifier) not controlled by man; automatic

   a robot pilot

3. a person who works or behaves like a machine; automaton

4. a set of traffic lights

robot

1. A machine designed to replace human beings in performing a variety of tasks, either on command or by being programmed in advance.

Other Word Forms

• robotism noun
• robotic adjective
• robotistic adjective
• robotlike adjective
• robot-like adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of robot¹

< Czech, coined by Karel Čapek in the play R.U.R. (1920) from the base robot-, as in robota compulsory labor, robotník peasant owing such labor

Word History and Origins

Origin of robot¹

C20: (used in R.U.R. , a play by Karel _Čapek ) from Czech robota work; related to Old Slavonic rabota servitude, German Arbeit work

Example Sentences

They land via spaceship in the Cretaceous Period and, guided by a flying robot, team up to collect the DNA of ancient species.

Read more on Wall Street Journal

Humanoid robots could assist the elderly or infirm.

Read more on Wall Street Journal

MS estimates that 55% of robots globally are produced in China.

Read more on Wall Street Journal

In a cinema landscape full of superheroes and robots, Fast & Furious found a lane for fans of over-the-top auto stunts and a huge, racially diverse cast who emphasize their bonds as a family.

Read more on Wall Street Journal

It is also using AI to train humanoid robots.

Read more on Barron's