traction

Meanings

1. The act of pulling something along a surface using motive power.
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. The extent of adoption of a new product or service, typically measured in number of customers or level of revenue achieved.
8. Popular support.
9. Scholarly interest and research.
10. A mechanically applied sustained pull, especially to a limb.
11. Collectively, the locomotives of a railroad, especially electric locomotives.

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

Etymology

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