Definition

Noun: A home appliance designed to clean clothes, linens, and other fabrics by automatically controlling the washing, rinsing, and often spinning cycles without the need for manual intervention between stages.

Usage

The term "automatic washer" specifically refers to the machine itself. It is typically used in contexts discussing home appliances, laundry, and household chores. - It is a compound noun. The adjective "automatic" modifies the noun "washer" to specify the type of appliance. - It is often used interchangeably with "washing machine," though "automatic washer" explicitly highlights its automated function.

Examples

• We need to replace our old automatic washer because it's no longer efficient.
• The new automatic washer has settings for delicate fabrics and heavy-duty loads.
• Please load the automatic washer before you leave the house.

Advanced Usage

• In Technical/Manufacturing Contexts: The term may be used to distinguish from older, non-automatic models (e.g., wringer washers).
  • The invention of the automatic washer revolutionized domestic labor in the mid-20th century.

Variants and Related Words

• Washing Machine: A more common general synonym.
• Washer-Dryer: A single appliance that combines the functions of an automatic washer and a clothes dryer.
• Laundry Appliance: A broader category that includes automatic washers, dryers, and combo units.

Synonyms

• Washing machine
• Laundry machine
• Clothes washer

Antonyms

• Manual washer
• Wringer washer
• Hand washing (the process, not an appliance)

Related Phrases/Compounds

• Front-loading automatic washer: A type where clothes are loaded through a door on the front.
• Top-loading automatic washer: A type where clothes are loaded through a lid on the top.
• Automatic washer cycle: The complete, pre-programmed sequence of washing, rinsing, and spinning.

Noun

1. a home appliance for washing clothes and linens automatically