automatism

Meanings

1. 1
   noun Acting automatically or involuntarily.
2. 2
   noun The power of initiating vital processes from within the cell, organ, or organism, independent of external stimulus.
3. 3
   noun The doctrine that animals are automata, operating according to mechanical laws.
4. 4
   noun An action performed subconsciously, without any apparent direction from the mind; a thought which appears spontaneously in one's consciousness.
5. 5
   noun A surrealist painting technique whereby one attempts to move the brush, pen etc. without conscious control over it.