automaton

[ aw-tom-uh-ton, -tn ]

noun

, plural au·tom·a·tons, au·tom·a·ta [aw-, tom, -, uh, -t, uh].

1. a mechanical figure or contrivance constructed to act as if by its own motive power; robot.
2. a person or animal that acts in a monotonous, routine manner, without active intelligence.
3. something capable of acting automatically or without an external motive force.

automaton

/ ɔːˈtɒməˌtɒn; -tən /

noun

1. a mechanical device operating under its own hidden power; robot
2. a person who acts mechanically or leads a routine monotonous life

Derived Forms

• auˈtomatous, adjective

Other Words From

• au·toma·tous adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of automaton¹

1605–15; < Latin: automatic device < Greek, noun use of neuter of autómatos spontaneous, acting without human agency, equivalent to auto- auto- ¹ + -matos, adj. derivative from base of memonénai to intend, ménos might, force

Word History and Origins

Origin of automaton¹

C17: from Latin, from Greek, from automatos spontaneous, self-moving

Example Sentences

Campione has become known for her unique specialism in dolls, doll houses, automata, birdcages and corkscrews.

From BBC

But in the 18th and 19th centuries, the automaton — an intricate mechanical device that could take the form of a preening silver swan or an organ-playing doll — was a popular source of entertainment and wonder.

From New York Times

There, in the Morris Museum’s collection of mechanical musical instruments and automata, is a music box from around 1877.

From New York Times

But by the time Descartes catalyzed the Enlightenment in the 17th century, he had reduced other animals to mere automatons, tainting centuries of science with the assumption that anything unlike us is inherently inferior.

From New York Times

Some in the party are anxious about this and accuse Reeves and other shadow ministers of sounding "robotic", like "automatons".

From BBC

Related Words

• apparatus
• appliance
• automobile
• engine
• gadget
• instrument
• motor
• tool
• vehicle