ENGLISH
REFERENCE

robotics

n. uncountable
B2 Upper Intermediate US //ˌɹoʊˈbɑtɪks// UK //ɹəʊbˈɒtɪks// ro·bot·ics

n. the science and technology of designing, building, and using robots. It covers everything from the computer code that runs them to the metal parts they are made of.

n. the branch of technology that deals with the design, construction, operation, and application of robots. Often encompasses mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, and computer science.


SIMPLE

She decided to study robotics at university.

CONTEXTUAL

Advances in robotics have allowed manufacturers to automate dangerous tasks that were previously performed by human workers.

COMPLEX

The field of soft robotics explores the use of flexible materials to create machines that can safely interact with biological tissues in surgical environments.

Origin

Coined by American science fiction author Isaac Asimov in 1941 from robot + -ics by comparison to "physics ... hydraulics, celestial mechanics, and so on" in his short story Liar!.

Usage

Treated as a singular noun despite the 's' ending; takes a singular verb.

Pitfall

Robotics are a growing field.Robotics is a growing field.Like 'physics' or 'mathematics', this word is singular and requires a singular verb.

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