26984 words

automatic

12 definitions • 24 examples
1
An automatic machine or device is able to operate independently of human control:

Examples:

automatic doors
automatic focus on a camera
2
An automatic gun is able to keep loading (= adding bullets) and shooting continuously for as long as the trigger is pressed:

Examples:

The state banned the sale of automatic weapons.
an automatic rifle
The weapon is capable of firing in either an automatic or a semiautomatic mode.
a burst of automatic fire
3
An automatic vehicle or gearbox is one in which the driver does not have to change the gears:

Examples:

I was thinking of buying an automatic car because my wife has arthritis.
automatic transmission Both 5-speed manual and 4-speed automatic transmissions are available.
automatic gearbox For the UK, it will have a four-speed automatic gearbox only.
4
done without thinking about it:

Examples:

Over time, driving just becomes automatic.
My automatic response was to pull my hand away.
5
certain to happen as part of the normal process or system:

Examples:

Citizenship is automatic for children born in this country.
You get an automatic promotion after two years.
6
a vehicle in which you do not have to change the gears:

Examples:

Kate drives an automatic.
In the US, most cars are automatics, while in the UK they are still mostly manual.
7
a gun that is able to keep loading (= adding bullets) and shooting continuously for as long as the trigger is pressed:

Examples:

The gunman opened fire with an automatic.
8

Examples:

The car has a five-speed automatic transmission.
9
(of an action) done without thinking about it:

Examples:

Soon enough, taking her pill every morning became automatic.
10

Examples:

Citizenship is automatic for children born in the US.
People on Social Security get automatic cost-of-living increases each year.
11
an automatic machine, process, or system is able to operate, complete a task, or move by itself without being controlled by a person:

Examples:

Tick the 'automatic update' box and the date and time will be updated for you.
automatic sliding doors
12
happening as a usual result, without the need for extra permission, approval, proof, etc.:

Examples:

EU nationals have the automatic right to apply for jobs in other countries within the European Union.

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