B1noun1K

Robot

UK /["/ˈrəʊbɒt/"]/US /["/ˈrəʊbɑːt/"]/

Definition

a machine that can perform a complicated series of tasks by itself

In simple words: A machine that can do tasks automatically.

Examples

These cars are built by robots.
On her first flight she was responsible for operating the shuttle's robot arm.
a toy robot
The action starts when an army of giant robots invades Manhattan.
Turn left at the first robot.

Usage notes

The term 'robot' can refer to various types of machines, from simple programmable devices to advanced artificial intelligence. It's suitable for both informal and formal contexts, but avoid using it in situations where the mechanical aspect is not relevant.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of 'Rob' and 'bot' — like Rob who built a bot to help with chores.

Collocations

robotic arm
industrial robot
service robot
mobile robot
robot technology

Synonyms

automaton
android
machine
cyborg
mechanism

Antonyms

human
organic

Common mistakes

Confused with 'robotic' which describes something similar but is an adjective.
Using 'robot' as a verb (e.g., 'to robot').
Mispronouncing the word — stress is on the first syllable: 'RO-bot'.