automat
UK[ˈɔːtəmat]US[ˈɔːtəˌmæt]
n
A vending machine, especially one that dispenses food or drinks.
n
A self-service restaurant where food is obtained from vending machines.
Morpheme Breakdown
auto
mat
auto
self
mat
acting
Etymology
The word 'automat' is a direct borrowing from the German 'Automat', which itself originates from the Greek automatos, meaning "acting of oneself, self-acting". This Greek term is a compound of autos ("self") and matos ("willing, thinking, acting"), the latter derived from the Proto-Indo-European root men- ("to think"). The concept migrated from describing self-moving mechanical devices in ancient times to specifically denote coin-operated, self-service machines in the modern era. The term became iconic in 20th-century America, naming a type of fast-food restaurant where meals were served from behind small glass windows in automated units, embodying the idea of food obtained "by itself" upon payment.
Analysis
Structure: auto (self) + mat (acting)
- auto: From Greek autos, meaning "self". In this word, it functions as a combining form indicating self-operation.
- mat: From Greek matos, the verbal adjective of menō, meaning "to wish, to be willing", later evolving to imply "acting". In this word, it functions as a root meaning "acting" or "moving".
Examples
He bought a sandwich from the automat on the corner.
The classic automat, with its rows of little glass doors, is a nostalgic symbol of mid-century urban life.
Modern vending machines are the direct descendants of the early automat.