1. starting or functioning by itself: started, operated, or regulated by a process or mechanism without human intervention
2. done by prior arrangement: beginning when specific conditions are fulfilled, without the need for a decision or action
3. done without thought: done without conscious thought as the result of habit or custom gave an automatic answer to the child
4. independent of somebody's will: done without intention, especially as the result of a physical reflex automatic blinking of the eyes
noun (pluralau·to·mat·ics)
Definition:
1. machine operating without human intervention: a machine that controls its own operating process, e.g. a washing machine
2. motor vehicle not requiring manual gear: a motor vehicle that has a built-in mechanism automatic transmission for changing gears without requiring the driver to do it
3. gun that fires continuously: a gun that continues to fire and eject used cartridges for as long as the trigger is pressed
[18th century. < Greek automatos "acting by itself"]
