What does robotic mean?
Robotic is an adjective describing things connected with robots, automation, or machine-controlled operation. In technical contexts, a robotic arm, vehicle, process, or system is one that performs tasks automatically or with a high degree of programmed precision. Robotic also has a figurative use for people whose speech, behavior, or emotional reactions seem mechanical, repetitive, or lacking in spontaneity. This figurative sense is usually mildly or strongly negative, suggesting that a person appears more like a machine than a responsive human being. The word is common in subjects including manufacturing, medicine, transport, and computer vision. It derives from robot, which was coined by the Czech writer Karel Čapek for his 1920 play R.U.R.; Čapek adapted the term from the Czech word robota, meaning forced labor or compulsory service.
Relating to robots, robotic systems, or the automation of machine-controlled operations.
"Engineers tested the robotic system under difficult terrain conditions."
The technical sense is standard in science, engineering, manufacturing, medicine, and transportation.
Having a mechanical, emotionless, or overly predictable manner.
"He responded to the news with a robotic greeting."
This figurative sense is usually critical and is not considered a compliment.
The word “robot” first appeared in a 1920 play by Karel Čapek, but the idea of robotic perfection still often feels unnervingly human.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does robotic come from?
Robotic was formed from robot by adding the adjective-forming suffix -ic. Robot was coined by Karel Čapek in his 1920 play R.U.R., from the Czech word robota, meaning forced labor or serf labor; the Czech term ultimately derives from a Proto-Slavic root meaning labor or work. The suffix -ic later became especially productive in forming English adjectives such as electronic, magnetic, and robotic.
Related word forms
How robotic is actually used
The technical sense is neutral and is common in engineering, science, and industry. The figurative sense is generally critical, describing behavior as mechanical, inflexible, or deficient in warmth and spontaneity.
Easily confused with robotic
Robotic is broader and can refer to machines or machine-like behavior, whereas an android is specifically a humanoid robot or artificial being.
Robotic usually implies the use or imitation of robots, whereas automatic describes something operating with little or no human intervention.