EnglishMain Dictionary
automatic
Universal Words
adjective, noun
adjective
1 (of a machine, device, etc.) having controls that work without needing a person to operate them:
automatic doors * a fully automatic driverless train * automatic transmission (= in a car, etc.) * an automatic rifle (= one that continues to fire as long as the trigger is pressed)
2 done or happening without thinking
SYNINSTINCTIVE:
Breathing is an automatic function of the body. * My reaction was automatic.
3 always happening as a result of a particular action or situation:
A fine for this offence is automatic.
automatically adverb:
The heating switches off automatically. * I turned left automatically without thinking. * You will automatically get free dental treatment if you are under 18.
noun
1 a gun that can fire bullets continuously as long as the TRIGGER is pressed
2 (BrE) a car with a system of GEARS that operates without direct action from the driver
compareSTICKSHIFT