automata
[/ɔːˈtɒmətə/ or /ɑːˈtɑːmətə/]
nounpl: automata (plural form) / automatons (alternative plural)
autômatos
1. Plural of automaton; self-operating machines or mechanical devices designed to follow a predetermined sequence of operations without external control
The museum displayed ancient automata that could perform intricate movements.
O museu exibia autômatos antigos que podiam realizar movimentos intrincados.
2. In computer science and mathematics, abstract machines or computational models that process input and change states according to defined rules
Finite state automata are fundamental concepts in computer theory.
Autômatos de estado finito são conceitos fundamentais na teoria da computação.
3. Entities that act or behave mechanically without conscious thought or free will
Critics argue that modern workers have become mere automata in the factory system.
Críticos argumentam que trabalhadores modernos se tornaram meros autômatos no sistema fabril.
The term 'automata' has historical significance dating back to ancient Greece and the Renaissance, where mechanical marvels were created for entertainment and demonstration of engineering prowess. In modern usage, it frequently appears in academic contexts (computer science, mathematics) and in philosophical discussions about consciousness and free will. In Brazil, the term is primarily used in technical and academic settings rather than everyday conversation.
Related Idioms & Phrases
like a bunch of automata - behaving mechanically without independent thought
move like automata - to move in a mechanical, repetitive manner
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