autopilot

Meanings

1. 1
   noun

   A mechanical, electrical, or hydraulic system used to guide a vehicle without assistance from a human being.

   I set the autopilot to due south, so I could get some rest.

2. 2
   noun

   A state of mind where one no longer thinks about doing one's actions, but acts mechanically.

   I've been doing this 12 hours non-stop, and am so hungry and tired that I've stopped thinking: I'm now on autopilot.

3. 3
   noun

   a navigational device that automatically keeps ships or planes or spacecraft on a steady course

4. 4
   noun

   a cognitive state in which you act without self-awareness

5. 5
   verb

   To pilot itself; to drive or travel automatically.

Etymology

From auto- + pilot.