'locomotive' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'locomotivus,' where 'loco-' meant 'from a place' and 'motivus' meant 'causing motion.'

'locomotivus' transformed into the French word 'locomotive,' and eventually became the modern English word 'locomotive' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'causing motion from a place,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a powered rail vehicle used for pulling trains.'