1) A robot is generally defined as a programmable machine that mimics human or animal actions and movements. To qualify as a robot, a machine must be able to receive external information and perform some physical task.
2) The word "robot" originated from the Czech word for forced labor or slavery. It was first used in a 1920s play to describe automated workers. Leonardo da Vinci drew early plans for a mechanical man in 1495.
3) Robots are commonly used in factories for repetitive tasks as they do not require breaks, pay, or accommodations. Certain dangerous jobs like bomb disposal are also well-suited to robots.