automatically

American  

[aw-tuh-mat-ik-lee] / ˌɔ təˈmæt ɪk li /

adverb

1. without volition or from force of habit; mechanically.

   Whenever I hear that song, I automatically think of my dad.

2. by a device or process requiring no human intervention.

   The switch can be operated automatically or manually.

3. in a manner independent of a decision or action.

   Your membership will be renewed automatically.

4. (of a firearm) repeatedly for as long as the trigger is pulled.

   a rifle that fires automatically.

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Etymology

Origin of automatically

First recorded in 1710–15; automatic ( def. ) + -ly ( def. )

Example Sentences

Of the 48 teams participating, the three hosts qualified automatically while 43 places were earned via direct qualification from the confederations and two spots were determined by intercontinental play-offs.

From BBC • Apr. 1, 2026

There is a question over whether Platt’s appointment automatically made him the co-CEO and gave him the authority to fire Lyons, the filing said.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 1, 2026

One factor reinforcing Block’s motivation for shorting credit is his opinion that there is too much passive investing in the market that automatically exaggerates moves when they come.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 1, 2026

The DWP will pay an interest-free advance, equivalent to the first month's payment, but will then automatically recover the money from subsequent Universal Credit payments, for up to two years.

From BBC • Mar. 30, 2026

“Where did you get that?” he asked automatically.

From "Night Owls" by A.R. Vishny

Related Words

• commonly
• faithfully
• frequently
• repeatedly
• routinely
• systematically
• usually