automation

American  

[aw-tuh-mey-shuhn] / ˌɔ təˈmeɪ ʃən /

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.

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automation British  

/ 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

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Other Word Forms

• proautomation adjective

Etymology

Origin of automation

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

Example Sentences

It plans to bring in modernized manufacturing methods—such as automation and robotics—from the firm’s world-class South Korean operations.

From The Wall Street Journal

“Organizations are not eliminating people, but they are reducing reliance on manual analysis in favor of automation that operates at machine speed.”

From The Wall Street Journal

One AI wrinkle they introduce is what is dubbed “Phase 3-D” — the interaction of AI with the physical world, through robotics and automation.

From MarketWatch

His comments align with other Silicon Valley leaders, particularly Tesla and SpaceX's Elon Musk, who frequently cite population decline and workforce aging as reasons to embrace automation.

From Barron's

At the same time, the promise of stable white-collar jobs feels less secure as automation and artificial intelligence reshape labor markets and blur the distinction between degree holders and nondegree workers.

From The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• computerization
• industrialization
• mechanization