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