n.
Pronunciation: ˌ o ̇ -t ə - ' m ā -sh ə n
Function: noun
Etymology: 1 automatic
Date: 1912
1 : the technique of making an apparatus, a process, or a system operate automatically
2 : the state of being operated automatically
3 : automatically controlled operation of an apparatus, process, or system by mechanical or electronic devices that take the place of human labor