locomotion
|lo-co-mo-tion|
🇺🇸
/ˌloʊkəˈmoʊʃən/
🇬🇧
/ˌləʊkəˈməʊʃən/
movement from place to place
Etymology
'locomotion' originates from Latin (via New Latin 'locomotio'), specifically from the element 'loco-' from Latin 'locus' meaning 'place' and from Latin 'motio' (from 'movere') meaning 'movement'.
'locomotion' changed from the New Latin word 'locomotio' and entered English usage (notably in scientific and technical contexts) as 'locomotion' in the late 18th to early 19th century.
Initially it referred specifically to movement from one place to another; over time it broadened to include mechanical or scientific senses (e.g., vehicle or robotic locomotion) as well as general motion.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
movement or the ability to move from one place to another (often used for animals or people).
The animal's locomotion was impaired after the injury.
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Noun 2
the movement or propulsion of a machine, vehicle, or robotic system.
Engineers study robot locomotion to improve stability and efficiency.
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Noun 3
the act or process of moving; general movement or motion.
Physical therapy can help restore normal locomotion after surgery.
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Last updated: 2025/09/26 01:12