automatic pilot

American  

noun

1. Also called automatic, autopilot, gyropilot, robot.  Aeronautics. an airborne electronic control system that automatically maintains a preset heading and attitude.

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idioms

1. on automatic pilot, functioning in an unthinking or reflexive manner.

automatic pilot British  

noun

1. Also called: autopilot.  a device that automatically maintains an aircraft on a preset course

2. informal acting without conscious thought because of tiredness, shock, or familiarity with the task being performed

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Etymology

Origin of automatic pilot

First recorded in 1915–20

Example Sentences

“The sailboat crew were either unable to avoid collision” or they could have been down below with Theros on automatic pilot, an anonymous source told Saltwire.

From BBC • Jul. 21, 2024

I’ve never gone to work in these last six years on automatic pilot.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 8, 2022

Stupid, probably, but when you’re in shock, it’s like you’re on automatic pilot.

From Seattle Times • Sep. 9, 2021

Complacency and dependency on an automatic pilot seems to be a root cause of those accidents, too.

From New York Times • Nov. 16, 2018

On automatic pilot I got dressed and let Tilly out.

From "Red Kayak" by Priscilla Cummings