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

Belle Lin: What I’m hearing is that the gains are in automating workflows that were already on their way to becoming more streamlined with robotic process automation.

From The Wall Street Journal

Anthropic, the company behind the AI agent Claude, says AI can amplify the speed, reach and automation of attacks.

From The Wall Street Journal

Over time, it is probable that AI use will broaden out, and things like robotics and industrial automation will have more AI technology built in.

From Barron's

Those changes arrive at a moment when companies are already pouring money into automation, data centers, and other AI infrastructure.

From Barron's

Honeywell shares are down this year, partly because it’s splitting into aerospace and automation divisions — and the market hates complexity.

From MarketWatch

Related Words

• computerization
• industrialization
• mechanization