semi-automatic transmission

noun

A multi-speed motor vehicle transmission where part of its operation is automated (typically the clutch actuation; partially automated) but the driver's input is still required to manually operate a gearshift and to change gear by hand/foot; i.e., not fully-automatic. Names for specific types of semi-automatic transmissions include clutchless manual, auto-manual, auto-clutch manual, and paddle-shift transmissions. These systems facilitate gear changes for the driver by operating the clutch system automatically, usually by means, or under control of an actuator or servo, sensors, a solenoid, and an integrated electronic control module, while still requiring the driver's input to manually shift gears.

Meanings

nounsemi-automatic transmission (countable and uncountable, plural semi-automatic transmissions)

plural semi-automatic transmissions

  1. countableuncountableautomotiveA multi-speed motor vehicle transmission where part of its operation is automated (typically the clutch actuation; partially automated) but the driver's input is still required to manually operate a gearshift and to change gear by hand/foot; i.e., not fully-automatic. Names for specific types of semi-automatic transmissions include clutchless manual, auto-manual, auto-clutch manual, and paddle-shift transmissions. These systems facilitate gear changes for the driver by operating the clutch system automatically, usually by means, or under control of an actuator or servo, sensors, a solenoid, and an integrated electronic control module, while still requiring the driver's input to manually shift gears.

Translations

Finnish puoliautomaattinen vaihteisto
  • puoliautomaattinen vaihteistotype of transmission
Polish półautomatyczna skrzynia biegów
  • półautomatyczna skrzynia biegówtype of transmission
Cite this entry
APA

semi-automatic transmission. (n.d.). In WatkinsX Dictionary. Retrieved November 4, 2026, from https://dictionary.watkinsx.com/word/semi-automatic%20transmission

MLA

“semi-automatic transmission.” WatkinsX Dictionary, https://dictionary.watkinsx.com/word/semi-automatic%20transmission. Accessed November 4, 2026.

Chicago

WatkinsX Dictionary, s.v. “semi-automatic transmission,” accessed November 4, 2026, https://dictionary.watkinsx.com/word/semi-automatic%20transmission.

Source: semi-automatic transmission on Wiktionary, CC BY-SA 4.0.