Bot
/bɒt/
Definitions
2 meaningsA software application that runs automated tasks over the internet.
/bɒt/
An automated program or script.
The search engine uses bots to crawl websites.
💡 Simply: A computer program that does things automatically.
More Examples
Social media bots are often used to spread propaganda.
How It's Used
"The website was overwhelmed by bots attempting to scrape data."
"Many social media platforms struggle with the problem of bots spreading misinformation."
A person who acts in a dull, unthinking, or robotic manner.
/bɒt/
A person who behaves in a mechanical way.
Don't be such a bot; try to be more engaging.
💡 Simply: Someone who acts like a robot.
How It's Used
"He's such a bot; he just repeats the same things over and over."
Idioms & expressions
chatbot
A computer program designed to simulate conversation with a human user.
"I used a chatbot to get customer service help."
Shortening of "robot", first appearing in the mid-20th century.
The word 'bot' emerged from 'robot', reflecting the automated nature of these programs.
Memory tip
Think of a 'robot' performing tasks automatically.