English Reference
adjective · noun

automotive

adj. · n.
US /ˌɔtəˈmoʊtɪv/ UK /ˌɔːtəʊmˈəʊtɪv/ au·to·mo·tive

  1. 01 B2 Upper Intermediate

    adj.relating to cars, trucks, and other vehicles with engines.

    adj.pertaining to motor vehicles, especially their design, manufacture, or operation.

    Simple

    The city is a major hub for automotive manufacturing and parts supply.

    In context

    The automotive sector is currently undergoing a massive transition as manufacturers shift their focus from internal combustion engines to electric drivetrains.

  2. 02 C1 Advanced Technical Science

    adj.able to move on its own without being pulled or pushed by something else.

    adj.possessing the power of self-propulsion; used technically to describe machinery that moves independently.

    Simple

    Early engineers dreamed of creating an automotive carriage that didn't need horses.

    In context

    The invention of the automotive engine revolutionized transport by eliminating the need for external draft animals or stationary steam power.

    self propelledautomatic
  3. 03 B2 Upper Intermediate

    n.the business or industry of making and selling cars.

    n.the industrial and commercial sector involved in the production and sale of motor vehicles.

    Simple

    He has worked in automotive for twenty years, starting as a mechanic.

    In context

    Global shifts in trade policy have had a profound impact on automotive, forcing companies to rethink their international supply chains.

    auto industrycar industry

Automotive lights are better than they've ever been, but there's a trade-off.

Ars Technica· 3 Aug 2026

The best of the Burmester audio systems in various large Mercedes are still top in my automotive book, but the Gravity’s Surreal system comes close.

Ars Technica· 17 Jul 2026

From auto- + motive.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Frequent
Updated