robotics
UK: rəʊˈbɒtɪks | US: roʊˈbɑːtɪks
n. The branch of technology that deals with the design, construction, operation, and application of robots.
n. The study or use of automated systems capable of performing tasks typically requiring human intelligence.
robotics = robot<machine> + ics<study of>
- robot: Derived from Czech "robota" (forced labor), coined by Karel Čapek in his 1920 play R.U.R. Originally referred to artificial humanoid workers.
- ics: Suffix from Greek "-ικά" (pertaining to), used to form nouns denoting fields of study (e.g., "physics," "mathematics").
Etymology Origin:
The term "robotics" was first used by sci-fi writer Isaac Asimov in 1941, blending "robot" with the scientific suffix "-ics." While "robot" evoked mechanical laborers, "-ics" elevated it to a formal discipline. The word’s evolution mirrors the transition from fictional automata to real-world engineering.
Modern robotics integrates AI to enhance automation in manufacturing.
She pursued a degree in robotics to develop assistive devices for healthcare.
The robotics team programmed a drone to navigate obstacle courses autonomously.
Ethical debates in robotics often focus on AI decision-making.
Advances in robotics have revolutionized space exploration.