traction

/ˈtɹæk.ʃən/

Proposed by a contributor, not yet supported by evidence.

Also seen as: tractions · tractioning · tractioned

Sense 1

Meaning · English

The act of pulling something along a surface using motive power.

Noun

Examples

Horse traction was used for all but 23 years of the tramway's life.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 2

Meaning · English

The condition of being so pulled.

Noun

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 3

Meaning · English

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

Verb

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Common questions

What does “traction” mean?

The act of pulling something along a surface using motive power.

Is “traction” formal or informal?

No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.