What does "automotive" mean?

1. (relating to motor vehicles) relating to cars, trucks, and other vehicles with engines. 2. (self-propelled) able to move on its own without being pulled or pushed by something else. 3. (the car industry) the business or industry of making and selling cars.

automotive

adj. · n.

US //ˌɔtəˈmoʊtɪv// UK //ˌɔːtəʊmˈəʊtɪv// au·to·mo·tive

1 relating to motor vehicles (adj.)
B2 Upper Intermediate

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

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

Example

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

Example

The automotive sector is currently undergoing a massive transition as manufacturers shift their focus from internal combustion engines to electric drivetrains.
- motor
- vehicular
2 self-propelled (adj.)
C1 Advanced Technical Science

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

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

Example

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

Example

The invention of the automotive engine revolutionized transport by eliminating the need for external draft animals or stationary steam power.
- self propelled
- automatic
- manual
- towed

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3 the car industry (n.)
B2 Upper Intermediate

the business or industry of making and selling cars.

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

Example

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

Example

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

Origin

From auto- + motive.