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Automaton: meaning, definitions and examples

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automaton

 

[ɔːˈtɒmətən ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

computer science

An automaton is a self-operating machine or control mechanism designed to automatically follow a predetermined sequence of operations.

Synonyms

device, machine, robot.

Examples of usage

  • Finite state automata are commonly used in computer science to model discrete systems.
  • An automaton can be represented as a directed graph with nodes representing states and edges representing transitions between states.
Context #2 | Noun

philosophy

In philosophy, an automaton refers to a being that operates in a mechanical fashion, without conscious awareness or free will.

Synonyms

mechanism, robot, zombie.

Examples of usage

  • The philosopher Descartes argued that animals are mere automata, lacking rationality and self-awareness.
  • Some argue that human behavior can be reduced to deterministic automata, devoid of true agency.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the Greek word ‘automatos’, meaning 'self-acting' or 'self-moving'.
  • The term has roots in ancient philosophies regarding the nature of life and machinery.
  • It entered the English language in the early 18th century, reflecting emerging technology.

History

  • In the 18th century, inventors created mechanical toys and figures that stimulated the concept of automation.
  • One of the most famous automatons is Jacques de Vaucanson’s 'Flute Player', built in 1737, which could play music and imitate complex movements.
  • During the Industrial Revolution, automatons paved the way for modern robotics, driving the evolution of machines that perform tasks.

Pop Culture

  • Automatons appear often in science fiction, representing the fusion of technology and humanity, like in films such as 'Blade Runner'.
  • The steampunk genre embraces the concept of automatons, featuring intricate clockwork devices that evoke a sense of nostalgia and wonder.
  • Video games often showcase characters resembling automatons, exploring themes of consciousness and artificial intelligence.

Science

  • In computer science, automaton theory laid foundation for understanding algorithms and computational processes.
  • There are different types of automatons in mathematics, including finite automatons, which are models of computation.
  • Research in fields like robotics and artificial intelligence continues to evolve from the concept of the automaton.

Literature

  • Autonomous characters have often been depicted in literature, such as the golem from Jewish folklore, which is an early representation of artificial beings.
  • In Karel Čapek's play 'R.U.R.', the term ‘robot’ was introduced, reflecting the fear and fascination around manufactured life-forms.
  • Stories often explore the relationship between humans and automatons, questioning what it means to be 'alive' or 'conscious'.

Translations

Translations of the word "automaton" in other languages:

🇵🇹 autômato

🇮🇳 स्वचालित यंत्र

🇩🇪 Automat

🇮🇩 otomaton

🇺🇦 автомат

🇵🇱 automat

🇯🇵 オートマトン (ōtomaton)

🇫🇷 automate

🇪🇸 autómata

🇹🇷 otomaton

🇰🇷 자동 장치 (jadong jangchi)

🇸🇦 الآلة الذاتية (al-āla al-dhātiya)

🇨🇿 automat

🇸🇰 automat

🇨🇳 自动机 (zìdòng jī)

🇸🇮 avtomat

🇮🇸 sjálfvirk vél

🇰🇿 автомат

🇬🇪 ავტომატი (avtomati)

🇦🇿 avtomat

🇲🇽 autómata

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #19,299, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.