1. Robot (noun): A machine designed to carry out tasks automatically, often programmable by a computer.
2. Robot (noun): A mechanical device that resembles a human and performs human-like functions.
3. Robot (noun): A person who behaves in a very mechanical or unemotional way, often lacking spontaneity or individuality.
A "robot" is a machine capable of carrying out a complex series of actions automatically, especially one programmable by a computer. The term also refers to a person who behaves in a dull, mechanical, and unemotional way, or a fictional machine resembling a human. In its original conception, a robot was an artificial biological humanoid created to perform labor. Explore the fascinating history and evolving application of the word "robot" to better understand its place in our world.
The word "robot" can describe physical machines, imaginative creations, or metaphorical behavior. It is commonly used in both technical and informal conversations to refer to automation and emotionless actions.
A "robot" is most often understood as a machine built to perform specific tasks automatically. These tasks may include assembly line work, delivery, or cleaning, depending on the robot’s programming and design.
In science fiction and advanced technology, a "robot" can take on a human-like appearance and perform complex activities such as speaking, walking, or responding to commands. These robots are called humanoid robots.
Informally, the word "robot" is used to describe someone who acts without feeling or creativity, going through motions without emotional connection or spontaneity.
"Robot" functions as a noun, referring to a mechanical automaton or a person with a machine-like demeanor. While primarily a noun, it is sometimes used informally as an adjective to describe something as being automated or having robotic qualities, as in "a robot voice." This adjectival use, though common, is a casual extension of its primary role.
The word "robot" is pronounced as "ROH-bot," with the emphasis placed on the first syllable. The "ROH" sound rhymes with "go," and the second syllable, "bot," sounds like the word "bought." To say it correctly, start with a strong "RO" and follow it with a short, distinct "bot" sound.
Phonetic Pronunciation: ROH-bot
Synonyms can help broaden your vocabulary and deepen your understanding of similar concepts. Here are some common alternatives to the word "robot":
Antonyms show the opposite of what "robot" represents—emotionless or automatic action.
Here are several antonyms for "robot":
Using the word "robot" in different ways can help clarify its meaning.
Here are 10 examples of how the word robot is used in a sentence:
The word "robot" is commonly used in both casual and formal settings, especially in discussions about technology, automation, and science fiction. According to Google's Ngram Viewer, which tracks the frequency of words in books over time, the usage of "robot" has increased significantly since the 1920s and surged again in the 21st century as automation and artificial intelligence became more mainstream.
Though "robot" is the standard form, several variants are used in specific contexts.
Here are the most common:
Related words help deepen the understanding of the concept of "robot."
Here are some commonly associated terms:
The word "robot" comes from the Czech word robota, which means "forced labor" or "drudgery." It was first introduced in 1920 by Czech writer Karel Čapek in his play R.U.R. (Rossum's Universal Robots). In the play, the robots were artificial beings made to serve humans, but later rebelled. Over time, the term spread globally, taking on broader meanings in technology and culture. It now refers to both real-world machines and fictional humanoids.
Understanding how "robot" branches into other forms helps explore its use in different contexts. Here are some common derivatives and compound terms:
Spelling errors can make your writing unclear. Being aware of common misspellings helps avoid confusion.
Here are some frequently made mistakes:
Idioms are helpful in expressing the idea of mechanical behavior or lack of emotion, much like the concept of a "robot."
Here are 10 idioms that reflect the qualities associated with "robot":
Here are some frequently asked questions about the word "robot," ranging from basic to more specific points of interest:
1. What is the definition of a "robot"?
A "robot" is a machine capable of carrying out tasks automatically, often programmable and designed for specific functions.
2. Can a robot think like a human?
Most robots cannot think independently; however, some use AI to mimic decision-making, though not at a human level.
3. Where did the word "robot" come from?
The word "robot" comes from the Czech term "robota," meaning forced labor, and was first used in 1920.
4. Is a drone considered a robot?
Yes, a drone is a type of robot, specifically a flying robot often used for surveillance, delivery, or photography.
5. Are all robots shaped like humans?
No, many robots are designed for function, not appearance. Most are not humanoid and look like machines or tools.
6. What is the difference between a robot and AI?
A robot is the physical machine, while AI is the software or intelligence that can control how the robot acts.
7. Can "robot" describe a person?
Yes, informally, someone who acts without emotion or variety might be described as a "robot."
8. What are robots used for today?
Robots are used in factories, homes, hospitals, and even space exploration, often doing tasks too dangerous or repetitive for people.
9. What’s a "robot vacuum"?
It’s an automatic floor-cleaning device that moves on its own and cleans using sensors and a programmed route.
10. What does "robotic" behavior mean?
It refers to movements or actions that are stiff, repetitive, or lacking in emotion, like those of a machine.
A "robot" is a machine capable of carrying out tasks automatically, often used in technology and metaphorically to describe emotionless behavior. Learning the definition and variations of "robot" helps in understanding its many uses in modern life. Explore more definitions on this site to enhance your language knowledge and vocabulary.
