traction

[ trak-shuh n ]
/ ˈtræk ʃən /

noun

Origin of traction

1605–15; < Medieval Latin tractiōn- (stem of tractiō) act of drawing, equivalent to tract(us), past participle of trahere to draw + -iōn- -ion

OTHER WORDS FROM traction

trac·tion·al, adjective non·trac·tion, noun

Example sentences from the Web for traction

British Dictionary definitions for traction

traction
/ (ˈtrækʃən) /

noun

the act of drawing or pulling, esp by motive power
the state of being drawn or pulled
med the application of a steady pull on a part during healing of a fractured or dislocated bone, using a system of weights and pulleys or splints
the adhesive friction between a wheel and a surface, as between a driving wheel of a motor vehicle and the road

Derived forms of traction

tractional, adjective tractive (ˈtræktɪv), adjective

Word Origin for traction

C17: from Medieval Latin tractiō, from Latin tractus dragged; see tractile

Medical definitions for traction

traction
[ trăkshən ]

n.

The act of drawing or pulling.
A pulling force.
A sustained pull applied mechanically, especially to the arm, leg, or neck, to correct fractured or dislocated bones, to overcome muscle spasms, or to relieve pressure.

Scientific definitions for traction

traction
[ trăkshən ]

Static friction, as of a wheel on a track or a tire on a road. See more at friction.
A sustained pulling force applied mechanically to a part of the body by means of a weighted apparatus in order to correct the position of fractured or dislocated bones, especially of the arm, leg, or neck.