semi-automatic

UK: ˌsɛmiˌɔːtəˈmætɪk | US: ˌsɛmiˌɔːtəˈmætɪk

Definition

  1. adj. operating partly automatically and partly manually

  2. adj. (of a firearm) firing one round per trigger pull but automatically reloading

  3. n. a semi-automatic device or firearm

Structure
semi <partial>auto <self>matic <acting>
Etymology

The word combines "semi-" (Latin semis, meaning "half" or "partial") with "automatic" (from Greek automatos, "self-acting"). "Automatic" itself splits into "auto-" (self) and "-matic" (acting, from matos, "willing" or "moving"). The term emerged in the early 20th century, initially describing machinery with partial automation, later specializing in firearms that reload automatically but require manual trigger pulls.

Examples

  1. The factory uses semi-automatic machines to speed up production.

  2. He prefers a semi-automatic rifle for target shooting.

  3. This semi-automatic coffee grinder requires minimal user input.

  4. The car features a semi-automatic transmission for smoother gear shifts.

  5. Police officers often carry semi-automatic pistols as standard issue.