autopilot

Everyday

1. A computer system in an aircraft, ship or car that steers and controls it automatically, without a person doing it by hand. tree →
2. (informal) In "on autopilot": doing something without thinking about it, out of habit. tree →

In the lessons

In technology lessons autopilots show how computers help pilots on long flights, though pilots still watch and take over for take-off and landing or in trouble. In everyday talk "on autopilot" describes doing things half-asleep, like walking to school without noticing the way. Phrases: on autopilot, switch on the autopilot.

Examples

• The pilot switched on the autopilot over the ocean. tree →
• On long flights, the autopilot flies the plane for hours. tree →
• I was on autopilot and put the milk in the cupboard. tree →
• Some cars can steer themselves a little with autopilot. tree →
• He walked home on autopilot, thinking about the game. tree →
• Pilots must still watch carefully even on autopilot. tree →

Note

Countable for the device (an autopilot), uncountable in "on autopilot". "Auto" means self. Myth: autopilot does not mean the pilot sleeps or that the plane flies itself completely; people stay in charge.