autopilot
AW-toh-py-lut
/ˈɔːtəʊpaɪlət/
An electronic or mechanical system that automatically controls the trajectory of an aircraft without constant human intervention.
In aviation, autopilot assists pilots rather than replacing them entirely; in common speech, it refers to doing tasks mindlessly.
The story behind the word. Combining Greek 'autos' (self) with 'pilot' (from Greek 'pedotes', helmsman). Invented by Lawrence Sperry in 1912, who famously demonstrated it by flying hands-free while his mechanic walked onto the wings.
Word relationships
- automatic pilot: Automatic pilot is the full formal term; autopilot is the universal standard form.
- manual control: Direct hands-on physical control by the human pilot.
Commonly confused with
- avionics: Autopilot is one specific automated control subsystem within the broader avionics package.
Collocations
- engage autopilot
- disengage autopilot
- on autopilot
- autopilot system
Idioms & expressions
- on autopilot (acting without active thought)
Example sentences
- "Once level at cruising altitude, the captain engaged the autopilot to reduce workload." Cruise flight
- "Exhausted from night shifts, she drove home on autopilot without remembering the turnings." Figurative daily life
Memory hook
AUTO (self) PILOT (steerer) = steers itself. Self-steering system.
When not to use
Avoid using it figuratively to imply complete lack of consciousness in high-stakes professional decisions.
Fun facts
- Lawrence Sperry's first autopilot used gyroscopes linked directly to hydraulic actuators.
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