traction

trac·tion

noun \ˈtrak-shən\

Definition of TRACTION

1

: the act of drawing : the state of being drawn; also : the force exerted in drawing

2

: the drawing of a vehicle by motive power; also : the motive power employed

3

a : the adhesive friction of a body on a surface on which it moves <the traction of a wheel on a rail> b : a pulling force exerted on a skeletal structure (as in a fracture) by means of a special device <a traction splint>; also : a state of tension created by such a pulling force <a leg in traction>

— trac·tion·al \-shnəl, -shə-n^əl\ adjective

Examples of TRACTION

1. These tires get good traction on wet roads.
2. A patch of ice caused the car to lose traction.
3. She was in traction for three weeks after she broke her hip.
4. The bill failed to gain traction in the Senate.
5. We didn't get traction on this idea until the board took interest.

Origin of TRACTION

Medieval Latin traction-, tractio, from Latin trahere

First Known Use: 1608

Other Mechanical Engineering Terms

centrifuge, differential, flange, lathe, linchpin, pinion, plenum, ratchet

Rhymes with TRACTION

action, faction, fraction, taction