autocorrect

noun

au·​to·​cor·​rect ˈȯ-(ˌ)tō-kə-ˈrekt How to pronounce autocorrect (audio)
: 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

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'autocorrect.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Word History

First Known Use

1981, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of autocorrect was in 1981

Dictionary Entries Near autocorrect

Cite this Entry

“Autocorrect.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/autocorrect. Accessed 28 Mar. 2023.

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
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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