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

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

Vietnam’s Revolution Express is another upcoming train journey to get locomotive fans excited. —Maureen O'Hare, CNN, 2 Nov. 2024

Noun

The train is a brightly colored, moving holiday lights display, and professional musicians play free concerts from the locomotive's festive stage. —David Clarey, Journal Sentinel, 5 Dec. 2024

Before being escorted to Santa by elves, the 100-year locomotive offers passengers a 90-minute ride. —Jalen Williams, Detroit Free Press, 25 Nov. 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