autopilot

Plural: autopilots

Noun

• a cognitive state in which you act without self-awareness
  • "she talked and he dozed and my mind went on autopilot"
• a navigational device that automatically keeps ships or planes or spacecraft on a steady course
• A mechanical, electrical, or hydraulic system used to guide a vehicle without assistance from a human being.
• A state of mind where one no longer thinks about doing one's actions, but acts mechanically.

Verb

• To pilot itself; to drive or travel automatically.

Examples

• "I set the autopilot to due south, so I could get some rest."
• "I've been doing this 12 hours non-stop, and am so hungry and tired that I've stopped thinking: I'm now on autopilot."

Synonyms

automatic pilot, robot pilot

Related Words

automatic, cruise control, go through the motions