Automation

/ˌɔːtəˈmeɪʃən/

nounIntermediateVery CommonTechnology

Definitions

1

The technique, method, or system of operating or controlling a process by highly automatic means, as by electronic devices, reducing human intervention to a minimum.

/ˌɔːtəˈmeɪʃən/

nounneutralIntermediate
Technology

The use of technology to perform tasks without human intervention.

Automation of the assembly line saved the company money.

💡 Simply: Machines doing work instead of people.

More Examples

2

The increasing automation of jobs is a concern for many workers.

How It's Used

Manufacturing

"The factory implemented automation to increase productivity."

Software Engineering

"Test automation is crucial for efficient software development."

Idioms & expressions

automate the process

To make a process automatic using technology.

"We need to automate the process to save time and reduce errors."

From the late 19th century; from "automaton" + "-ation". The term reflects the increasing use of self-operating machinery.

Early uses focused on mechanical automation in factories, later expanding to software and other fields.

Memory tip

Think of 'auto' (self) and 'mation' (action) – self-acting.

autoamationautomatiionautamation

Usage

30%Spoken
70%Written