Automata - Oxford Definition

Figures animated by clockwork or other mechanism, first made by the Greeks and Arabs, but particularly popular during the Middle Ages and Renaissance. Early examples usually formed part of large clocks but they were also used as elaborate table decorations. By the 16th century a wide range of fantastic ornaments with miniature mechanisms were made in Switzerland, France, and England. From the 19th century onwards automata were made mainly as amusements for children.