automate [aw-tuh-meyt] Word Origin verb (used with object), au·to·mat·ed, au·to·mat·ing.
- to apply the principles of automation to (a mechanical process, industry, office, etc.).
- to operate or control by automation.
- to displace or make obsolete by automation (often followed by out): The unskilled jobs are going to be automated out.
verb (used without object), au·to·mat·ed, au·to·mat·ing.
- to install automatic procedures, as for manufacturing or servicing; follow or utilize the principles of automation: Many banks have begun to automate.
Origin of automate First recorded in 1950–55; back formation from automation Related formsau·to·mat·a·ble, adjectivede-au·to·mate, verb, de-au·to·mat·ed, de-au·to·mat·ing.non·au·to·mat·ed, adjectiveun·au·to·mat·ed, adjective British Dictionary definitions for unautomated automate verb
- to make (a manufacturing process, factory, etc) automatic, or (of a manufacturing process, etc) to be made automatic
Word Origin and History for unautomated automate v.
“to convert to automatic operation,” 1954, back-formation from automated (q.v.). Ancient Greek verb automatizein meant “to act of oneself, to act unadvisedly.” Related: Automating.