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robotics

American  
[roh-bot-iks] / roʊˈbɒt ɪks /

noun

(used with a singular verb)
  • robotics
    plural
  1. the use of computer-controlled robots to perform manual tasks, especially on an assembly line.


robotics British  
/ rəʊˈbɒtɪks /

noun

  1. the science or technology of designing, building, and using robots

  2. another name for robot dancing

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Other Word Forms

Noun Inflected Forms

Etymology

Origin of robotics

1941; robot + -ics; coined by Isaac Asimov

Explanation

Robotics is the study of robots, or machines that are designed to do certain jobs. If you're fascinated with robots, you might want to study robotics in college. Robotics, the branch of science that studies the technology and uses of robots, involves various kinds of engineering and computer programming. While a robot is defined as a machine that can be programmed to do a job, many people interested in robotics (especially science fiction fans) think of them as a mechanical replacement for a human. Robotics comes from robot, from the Czech robotiti, "work or drudge."

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Vocabulary lists containing robotics

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

See Examples For:

The Hangzhou-based firm's machines have become synonymous with China's push to develop its booming robotics industry, backed by government support and strong domestic supply chains.

From Barron's Aug. 19, 2026

For now, Unitree’s humanoid robots find their main uses in education and entertainment, or they serve as guinea pigs in the labs of robotics researchers.

From The Wall Street Journal Aug. 19, 2026

It has become a robotics industry leader, selling devices from sensors and automated arms to four-legged and human-like machines.

From BBC Aug. 19, 2026

A steady buzz is growing around China as advanced robotics emerges as the next frontier of the global AI boom, encompassing both investor enthusiasm and alarm from rivals such as the United States.

From Barron's Aug. 19, 2026

How did I miss they’re in robotics together?

From "A High Five for Glenn Burke" by Phil Bildner

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