Animatronics

Part of speech: noun

Pronunciation: /ˌænɪməˈtɹɒnɪks/

Definitions

1. A technology that uses robotics to simulate lifelike movements and expressions in figures, frequently found in entertainment venues
2. These mechanized figures mimic living creatures to create interactive experiences in attractions or performances
3. Utilizing electronic and mechanical elements, this field merges art and engineering to bring static sculptures to animated life

Etymology: Walt Disney's studio coined the term for a specific invention: "Audio-Animatronics," the lifelike figures of people and animals that moved and spoke in its theme park attractions. The word "animatronics" is a blend of "animation" and "electronics," so it joins two existing words into one new one. "Animation" comes from Latin "animatio," a word rooted in "anima," meaning breath or soul, while "electronics" grows from "electron," which traces back to the Greek "ēlektron," meaning amber, the substance that gave the word its link to electricity. The "-tronics" ending deserves a note. It follows the pattern of "electronics," and the blend has been reused for other devices, which is why it reads as a family of words rather than a single isolated term.

Synonyms: robotics, puppetry