cybernetic

Rarely cy·ber·net·i·cal

[sahy-ber-net-ik]

adjective

1. of or relating to cybernetics, the study of automatic control and communication functions in both living organisms and mechanical and electronic systems.

   The self-regulating engineering devices of the mid-20th century inspired the cybernetic image of the brain as a computer.

2. relating to or being a mechanical or electronic device implanted into or attached to a living organism to enhance or aid physiological functioning.

   In the sci-fi movie, the hero’s nemesis acquires a six-legged spider-like cybernetic apparatus to replace his lost lower body.

Other Word Forms

• cybernetically adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of cybernetic¹

First recorded in 1945–50; back formation from cybernetics ( def. )

Example Sentences

Grimes’ filtered coos and hushed vocals approximate cybernetic birdsong.

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There’s much more to the book than that, including a reflection on the protean musical genius Brian Eno, whose work has involved cybernetic ideas for more than half a century.

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The first is the stream of thought going back to Ross Ashby known as “management cybernetics,” which Davies clarifies.

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As a student, Harbisson had met Plymouth University cybernetics expert Adam Montandon, who enabled him to "hear" colour using headphones, a webcam and laptop - transforming light waves into sounds.

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The “I Was Made for Lovin’ You” singers also released a behind-the-scenes video documenting how the digital avatars of its members came to be, acknowledging the reasoning for the existence of their cybernetic manifestations.

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