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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:

Humanoid robots have the potential to revolutionize life as we know it, and robotics startups across the globe are trying to bring them to market as soon as possible.

From MarketWatch ● Oct. 2, 2026

He also highlighted several “chokepoints” for scaling U.S. actuator production for robotics at scale, each of which bring their own challenges.

From MarketWatch ● Oct. 2, 2026

The Pittsburgh-based university, known for its expertise in computer science, artificial intelligence and robotics, will open a 35-acre campus in Miami’s Wynwood neighborhood that will focus on technology and innovation.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Sep. 30, 2026

Hegseth said the combatant command would speed the development of robotics and autonomous systems.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Sep. 30, 2026

How did I miss they’re in robotics together?

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

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