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

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

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

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

They are typically the default investment for new hires who are automatically enrolled.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 30, 2026

The robot’s limbs paddled automatically, which left her mind free to wander.

From "The Wild Robot Protects" by Peter Brown

Related Words

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