— automatically , adv. — automaticity /aw'teuh meuh tis"i tee/ , n.
/aw'teuh mat"ik/ , adj.
1. having the capability of starting, operating, moving, etc., independently: an automatic sprinkler system; an automatic car wash.
2. Physiol. occurring independently of volition, as certain muscular actions; involuntary.
3. done unconsciously or from force of habit; mechanical: an automatic application of the brakes.
4. occurring spontaneously: automatic enthusiasm.
5. (of a firearm, pistol, etc.) utilizing the recoil or part of the force of the explosive to eject the spent cartridge shell, introduce a new cartridge, cock the arm, and fire it repeatedly.
n.
6. a machine that operates automatically.
7. See automatic rifle .
8. See automatic pistol .
9. Football. audible (def. 2).
10. See automatic pilot .
11. See automatic transmission .
12. an automobile equipped with automatic transmission.
13. on automatic , being operated or controlled by or as if by an automatic device.
[ 1740-50; autómat ( os ) self-moving (see AUTOMATON) + -IC ]
Syn. 2. AUTOMATIC, INVOLUNTARY, SPONTANEOUS all mean not under the control of the will. That which is AUTOMATIC, however, is an invariable reaction to a fixed type of stimulus: The patella reflex is automatic. That which is INVOLUNTARY is an unexpected response that varies according to the occasion, circumstances, mood, etc.: an involuntary cry of pain. That which is SPONTANEOUS arises from immediate stimuli and usually involves an expression of strong feeling: a spontaneous roar of laughter.