automation

[aw-tuh-mey-shuhn]

noun

1. the technique, method, or system of operating or controlling a process by highly automatic means, as by electronic devices, reducing human intervention to a minimum.

2. a mechanical device, operated electronically, that functions automatically, without continuous input from an operator.

3. act or process of automating.

4. the state of being automated.

automation

/ ˌɔːtəˈmeɪʃən /

noun

1. the use of methods for controlling industrial processes automatically, esp by electronically controlled systems, often reducing manpower

2. the extent to which a process is so controlled

Other Word Forms

• proautomation adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of automation¹

First recorded in 1945–50; autom(atic) ( def. ) + (oper)ation ( def. )

Example Sentences

Once a luxury reserved for big manufacturers, “cobots”—collaborative robots—are bringing automation to every fabricator, no matter the size.

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Some of its newer fulfillment centers are reportedly twice as productive thanks to AI-driven automation.

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These enhanced assistants aim to offer more natural conversations, automation through verbal commands, and—via Amazon’s Ring—a feature for finding lost dogs.

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“The biggest risk in my mind is when you have this much automation, you want to make sure it doesn’t take out your creative thinking,” Saiprasad said.

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BlackBerry is looking to extend the platform into areas such as robotics, medical and industrial automation.

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Related Words

• computerization www.thesaurus.com
• industrialization 
• mechanization