autocorrect

noun

au·​to·​cor·​rect ˈȯ-(ˌ)tō-kə-ˈrekt 

: a computer feature that attempts to correct the spelling of a word as the user types it

The iPad boasts an autocorrect system that will try to figure out what you mean to type even when you don't quite tap the right keys.

—Dan Moren

autocorrect verb, transitive + intransitive

autocorrected; autocorrecting

When your phone autocorrects "I'll be around later" to "I'll be aroused later" in a text to your boss, a whole new level of mortifying sets in.

—NPR.org

Did you know "kale" autocorrects to "Jake"? I found this out over Labor Day weekend when I jotted down this month's recipe in the notes section of my phone.

—Francesca Olsen

Example Sentences

Recent Examples on the Web

Copilot works like autocorrect on steroids, offering code to complete whole functions or auto-filling repetitive code as a developer types. —IEEE Spectrum, 28 Sep. 2021

Both Jones and Donath separately noted that predictive technologies, essentially omnipresent autocorrect, will become more accurate which will make communication faster and require less brainpower. —Matt Blitz, Popular Mechanics, 30 Sep. 2021

These models work by identifying and regurgitating patterns in language, like a super-powerful autocorrect. —Matteo Wong, The Atlantic, 16 Feb. 2023

Twenty years of that exclamation point really doing a number on autocorrect. —Vulture, 27 Jan. 2023

This first iPhone texting tip is not only great for preventing autocorrect fails, but also for improving your overall texting experience. —Yoni Heisler, BGR, 6 Sep. 2022

Even how to spell it, which autocorrect helped me out with a lot in the beginning. —Maureen Lee Lenker, EW.com, 29 July 2022

Try saying those three times, or even typing them once with autocorrect. —Washington Post, 6 Jan. 2022

Even if your finger isn't directly touching all of the right letters, the right word will be selected, similar to the regular autocorrect and suggestions feature in iMessage. —Courtney Linder, Popular Mechanics, 19 July 2021

See More

Word History

First Known Use

1981, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

autocorrect

noun

au·​to·​cor·​rect

ˈȯ-(ˌ)tō-kə-ˈrekt

: a computer feature that attempts to correct the spelling of a word as the user types

autocorrect verb