/aw'teuh may"sheuhn/ , n.
1. the technique, method, or system of operating or controlling a process by highly automatic means, as by electronic devices, reducing human intervention to a minimum.
2. a mechanical device, operated electronically, that functions automatically, without continuous input from an operator.
3. act or process of automating.
4. the state of being automated.
[ 1945-50; AUTOM(ATIC OPER)ATION ]