1.
automatic vending; automated selling
The automated selling of goods through machines, without the need for a human clerk.
A compound of 自動 (automatic) and 販売 (sales). Almost always encountered in the compound 自動販売機 (vending machine), often abbreviated to 自販機 in casual speech.
Japan is famous for its extraordinarily high density of vending machines — roughly one for every 23 people. They sell everything from drinks and snacks to hot meals, umbrellas, and even fresh flowers.
Common collocations
- 自動販売機: vending machine
- 自販機: vending machine (abbreviation)
- 自動販売コーナー: vending machine area
- 飲料自動販売機: beverage vending machine