Robot

Definition

Robot is a noun that refers to a machine capable of carrying out complex tasks automatically, especially one programmable by a computer, and often resembling a human or animal in form.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈroʊ.bɒt/
• Respelling: ROH-bot

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈrəʊ.bɒt/
• Respelling: ROH-bot

Etymology

The word "robot" originates from the Czech word "robota," meaning "forced labor" or "drudgery," introduced in Karel Čapek's play *R.U.R. (Rossum's Universal Robots)* in 1920. It derives from Old Church Slavonic "rabota," meaning "servitude."

Derivatives

• Robotics (noun)
• Robotic (adjective)
• Roboticist (noun)
• Roboticization (noun)
• Robotize (verb)

Synonyms

• Automaton
• Machine
• Android

Antonyms

• Human
• Organism
• None

Usage

The term "robot" is used in technology, science fiction, and everyday language to describe machines that perform tasks automatically. Examples include "The factory uses robots to assemble cars" and "The movie featured a humanoid robot with artificial intelligence."

Related Terms

• Automation: The use of technology to perform tasks without human intervention.
• Artificial Intelligence: The simulation of human intelligence by machines.
• Humanoid: A robot designed to resemble a human in appearance and behavior.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A machine designed to perform tasks automatically: Refers to programmable devices capable of executing predefined or adaptive actions.
  • Example: "The cleaning robot navigates the house autonomously."
• A humanoid or animal-like mechanical creation: Refers to robots designed to mimic living beings in form and behavior.
  • Example: "The humanoid robot greeted visitors at the exhibition."
• A metaphor for someone who behaves mechanically: Refers to individuals acting without emotion or spontaneity.
  • Example: "She worked like a robot, following instructions without question."