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traction

noun

  1. geologic process whereby a current transports sand grains and larger clasts by rolling or sliding along the bottom. Thus, the grains and clasts interact with the substratum during transport
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Wiktionary

Pronunciation: /ˈtɹæk.ʃən/

noun

Etymology: From Medieval Latin tractio, from Latin tractus, perfect passive participle of verb trahere (“pull”), + noun of action suffix -io (genitive -ionis).

  1. The act of pulling something along a surface using motive power.

    Horse traction was used for all but 23 years of the tramway's life.

  2. The condition of being so pulled.
  3. Grip.
  4. The pulling power of an engine or animal.
  5. The adhesive friction of a wheel etc on a surface.
  6. Progress in or momentum toward achieving a goal, especially in gaining support, recognition, or popularity.
  7. Progress in or momentum toward achieving a goal, especially in gaining support, recognition, or popularity.
  8. Progress in or momentum toward achieving a goal, especially in gaining support, recognition, or popularity.

    Despite this somewhat late start, the field of study has gained great traction globally, and since 2015 has even had its own journal: Linguistic Landscape: An International Journal.

  9. A mechanically applied sustained pull, especially to a limb.
  10. Collectively, the locomotives of a railroad, especially electric locomotives.

verb

Etymology: From Medieval Latin tractio, from Latin tractus, perfect passive participle of verb trahere (“pull”), + noun of action suffix -io (genitive -ionis).

  1. To apply a sustained pull to (a limb, etc.).