noun
- A device or mechanism that automatically loads material, ammunition, or data into a machine or system.
- In programming, a software component that automatically loads classes, modules, or libraries into memory when needed.
- A feature in a firearm that automatically feeds ammunition into the chamber.
Usage: commonly used in military, industrial, and computing contexts
Usage: technical; used in software development
Usage: military and firearms terminology
Examples
- The tank's autoloader allows the gunner to fire rounds more rapidly than manual loading would permit.
- Modern web frameworks use an autoloader to dynamically include PHP classes without explicit require statements.
- The industrial machine's autoloader reduces downtime by continuously feeding raw materials into the production line.
- The programmer configured the autoloader to handle all dependencies automatically.
- The cannon's autoloader jammed, forcing the crew to switch to manual operation.
- Java's autoloader system manages the loading of compiled class files at runtime.