automotive

adjective

au·​to·​mo·​tive ˌȯ-tə-ˈmō-tiv 

1

: self-propelled

2

: of, relating to, or concerned with self-propelled vehicles or machines

Examples of automotive in a Sentence

The store stocks automotive parts.

Recent Examples on the Web

Although its name keeps getting more convoluted, what’s now known as the Quail by Peninsula, a Motorsports Gathering remains simply a concours and automotive exhibition not to be missed. — Viju Mathew, Robb Report, 15 Aug. 2026

Kamil Krzaczynski | Reuters The rise of these tech-heavy vehicles poses implications for the entire automotive world. — Robert Ferris, CNBC, 15 Aug. 2026

These include platinum-group metals found in spent automotive catalysts and potentially critical elements present in mine tailings and other complex waste streams. — Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 14 Aug. 2026

Eric asked a number of car experts including a curator of Transportation at The Henry Ford, an automotive historian and a Hollywood stunt driver the same question. — Nashville Tennessean, USA Today, 14 Aug. 2026

Word History

Etymology

auto- + motive entry 2

First Known Use

1830, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for automotive

• locomotive
• electromotive
• emotive
• promotive
• motive
• votive

Kids Definition

automotive

adjective

au·​to·​mo·​tive ˌȯt-ə-ˈmōt-iv 

1

: self-propelled

2

: of, relating to, or concerned with automobiles, trucks, or buses