autoloader

English

Etymology

auto- +‎ loader

Pronunciation

• Audio (UK):

  (file)

Noun

autoloader (plural autoloaders)

1. (military) A mechanical device that loads ordnance into weapons such as tanks and artillery that would otherwise be loaded by a dedicated crew.
2. (computing) A mechanical device that automatically loads storage media (such as tapes or disks) into the device that can read them.
3. (programming) A software mechanism that automatically locates and loads classes etc. as required at run time.
4. (firearms) A semi-automatic firearm.