manver

Manver is a term used in speculative fiction and worldbuilding to denote a class of autonomous, programmable micro-machines designed to perform a range of physical manipulation tasks without direct human control. In typical depictions, a manver is a compact device or module equipped with sensors, actuators, and a small on-board processor; units can be deployed individually or as swarms to assemble structures, repair equipment, manipulate hazardous materials, or adapt environments for other technologies. Because manvers operate with minimal human input, stories explore themes of autonomy, responsibility, and safety in automated systems.

The origin of the term within fiction is usually as an in-world neologism, sometimes explained as a portmanteau of man (human) and lever or maneuver, though usage varies by author. Some worldbuilders treat manvers as modular, replaceable components that can be reprogrammed for new tasks, while others depict them as highly specialized devices tied to particular ecosystems or industries.

In practical discussions among designers of robotic systems, "manver" may be used informally to refer to a generic autonomous manipulation capability, though this usage is not standard outside speculative contexts. The concept serves as a narrative device to examine the boundaries between human oversight and automated agency.

See also: autonomous robots, drones, swarm robotics, nanotechnology, manipulation devices.