automation
aw-tuh-MAY-shun
/ˌɑː.t̬əˈmeɪ.ʃən/
The use of largely automatic equipment in a system of manufacturing or production.
Implies replacing human judgment and control with self-regulating systems.
The story behind the word. Coined in 1946 by Ford Motor Company executive D.S. Harder. He combined Greek autos (self) and matos (acting) to describe automatic engine-block transfer machines.
Word relationships
- computerization: Computerization focuses on using software, while automation covers all self-operating mechanical and digital systems.
- manual operation: Manual operation requires active human intervention at every step.
Commonly confused with
- mechanize: Mechanize gives workers physical power tools, while automation enables systems to operate without human operators.
Word family
- automate (verb): To convert a process to automatic operation.
- automated (adjective): Operated by automation.
Collocations
- factory automation
- advances in automation
- process automation
Example sentences
- "Robotic automation in automobile plants increased assembly speed while cutting labor costs." Tech Economics
- "Economists debate whether modern AI automation will create more high-skilled jobs than it eliminates." Future of Work
Memory hook
AUTO-mation: AUTO-matic action where machines think and move on their own. Self-driven factory power.
When not to use
Do not confuse with simple tool use; automation requires self-operating control loops.
Fun facts
- The word was created right after World War II to describe the new assembly lines at Ford's Cleveland plant.
Related words
Explore more words
manufacturing, production, redundant, algorithmic, Artificial Intelligence, industrial
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