locomotive

1 of 2

adjective

lo·​co·​mo·​tive ˌlō-kə-ˈmō-tiv 

1

: locomotory

2

: of or relating to travel

3

: of, relating to, or being a machine that moves about by operation of its own mechanism

locomotive

2 of 2

noun

1

: a self-propelled vehicle that runs on rails and is used for moving railroad cars

2

: a school or college cheer characterized by a slow beginning and a progressive increase in speed

Examples of locomotive in a Sentence

Adjective

the locomotive ability of spiders

Recent Examples on the Web

Adjective

As the locomotive speeds towards a 2027 premiere, Gardiner can comfortably claim to be one of the most influential showrunners in the business. —Jake Kanter, Deadline, 2 Dec. 2024

Explore Blue Ridge, Georgia Stone Mountain Scenic Railroad Stone Mountain, Georgia All aboard Stone Mountain Scenic Railroad’s full-size 1940s locomotive for an interactive musical experience. —Meghan Overdeep, Southern Living, 28 Nov. 2024

Noun

Durango’s Polar Express train journey is led by a vintage steam locomotive that travels on a heritage narrow-gauge railroad through the snowy mountains of Colorado. —Evie Carrick, Travel + Leisure, 13 Dec. 2024

Indefatigable Raymond Lowey, designer of everything from toasters to locomotives, said the Riviera was the most handsome American production car—apart from his own Studebaker Avanti. —Robert Ross, Robb Report, 6 Dec. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1612, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Noun

1829, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

locomotive

1 of 2 adjective

lo·​co·​mo·​tive ˌlō-kə-ˈmōt-iv 

1

: of or relating to locomotion

2

: of, relating to, or being a locomotive

locomotive

2 of 2 noun

: an engine that moves under its own power

especially : one that hauls cars on a railroad

Medical Definition

locomotive

adjective

lo·​co·​mo·​tive ˌlō-kə-ˈmōt-iv 

: locomotor sense 1

locomotive organs include flagella, cilia, pseudopodia, and limbs