Definition

Noun: - An automatic feeding device: A machine or apparatus designed to supply material, typically food or raw materials, without requiring constant manual operation. It functions by dispensing a controlled amount of the material at set intervals or in response to demand.

Examples of Usage

• Noun:
  • The farmer installed a self-feeder in the chicken coop to ensure the birds had constant access to grain.
  • Modern aquariums often use a self-feeder to dispense food for the fish when the owner is away.

Advanced Usage

• Technical/Industrial Context: In manufacturing, a self-feeder can refer to a machine that automatically supplies raw materials (like plastic pellets or metal stock) into a processing unit.
  • The injection molding machine's self-feeder ensures a consistent flow of polymer granules.

Variants and Related Words

• Feeder (n): A general term for a device that supplies material. A self-feeder is a specific type of automated feeder.
• Autofeeder (n): A synonym for self-feeder, often used in technical contexts.
• Hopper (n): A container that holds material and often works in conjunction with a self-feeder mechanism.

Synonyms

• Automatic feeder
• Dispenser
• Autofeeder

Related Phrases

• Gravity-fed self-feeder: A device that uses gravity to move material from a storage container to an access point.
  • The simple gravity-fed self-feeder for the chickens required no electricity.
• Timed self-feeder: A device that releases material at pre-programmed times.
  • They set the timed self-feeder to give the cat two small meals a day.

Noun

1. a machine that automatically provides a supply of some material
   • the feeder discharged feed into a trough for the livestock