autopilot
UK: ˈɔːtəʊˌpaɪlət | US: ˈɔːtoʊˌpaɪlət
n. a device or system that controls the trajectory of a vehicle (e.g., aircraft, ship) automatically without human intervention.
n. (figurative) a state of operating without conscious control or effort.
The word autopilot merges auto- (Greek for "self") with pilot (originally from Greek pēdon "oar," via Latin pedota and French pilote). Coined in the early 20th century for aviation, it reflects the concept of a system that "steers itself." The figurative sense emerged later, describing habitual or unconscious behavior.
The plane switched to autopilot during the long flight.
She worked on autopilot after years of routine tasks.
Modern cars often include autopilot features for highway driving.
His autopilot response betrayed his lack of genuine interest.
The ship’s autopilot adjusted the course to avoid storms.