Automatism/ɔːˈtɑːmətɪzəm/ Definition 1 of 4Pro Tip 1/2Reflex Actions Automatism refers to actions our bodies perform without us consciously deciding to do them. Blinking is an automatism to keep our eyes moist. Pro Tip 2/2Biological Basis Many automatic behaviors are rooted in human biology and necessary for survival. Heartbeat is a crucial automatism for circulating blood.