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Semiautomatic Meaning in English

word

ˌsɛmaɪˌɔtəˈmætɪk/, /ˌsɛmiˌɔtəˈmætɪk/, /ˌsɛmɪˌɔtəˈmætɪk
sem-eye-aw-tuh-MAT-ik
sˌɛmɪˌɔːtəmˈætɪk
SEM-ee-AW-tuh-MAT-ik

Definition

A semiautomatic machine or weapon automatically completes one action (like loading) after each trigger or button press, but still needs manual input for the next action.

Usage & Nuances

Commonly used for firearms, especially pistols and rifles, but also other machines. 'Semiautomatic' means it works partly by itself after each action, not fully automatic. Not used for things that are either fully manual or fully automatic.

Example Sentences

This is a semiautomatic washing machine.

basic

He owns a semiautomatic pistol.

basic

A semiautomatic car still needs you to shift some gears.

basic

Most modern handguns are semiautomatic these days.

natural

The factory upgraded its old machines to semiautomatic ones last year.

natural

If you want more control, get a semiautomatic instead of a fully automatic model.

natural