Meaning of the word autopilot in English

What does autopilot mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

autopilot

US /ˈɑː.t̬oʊˌpaɪ.lət/
UK /ˈɔː.təʊˌpaɪ.lət/
"autopilot" picture

Noun

a device or system used to guide a vehicle without assistance from a human operator

Example:
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The pilot switched the plane to autopilot once they reached cruising altitude.
•
Modern cars are increasingly equipped with advanced autopilot features.

Phrase

doing something without thinking because you have done it many times before

Example:
•
I was on autopilot this morning and drove to my old office by mistake.
•
After years of doing the same job, she just goes through the day on autopilot.