traction

noun trac·tion \ˈtrak-shən\

: the force that causes a moving thing to stick against the surface it is moving along

: the power that is used to pull something

medical : a way of treating broken bones in which a device gently pulls the bones back into place

Full Definition of TRACTION

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

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

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

See traction defined for English-language learners

See traction defined for kids

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

TRACTION Defined for Kids

traction

noun trac·tion \ˈtrak-shən\

Definition of TRACTION for Kids

: the force that causes a moving thing to slow down or to stick against the surface it is moving along <The wheels get more traction when the road is dry.>

Medical Dictionary

traction

noun trac·tion \ˈtrak-shən\

Medical Definition of TRACTION

: the pulling of or tension established in one body part by another

: a pulling force exerted on a skeletal structure (as in a fracture) by means of a special device or apparatus <a traction splint>; also : a state of tension created by such a pulling force <a leg in traction>