traction
|trac-tion|
/ˈtrækʃən/
grip or pull
Etymology
'traction' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'tractio,' where 'tract-' meant 'to pull or drag.'
'tractio' transformed into the French word 'traction,' and eventually became the modern English word 'traction' through Middle English.
Initially, it meant 'the act of pulling or dragging,' but over time it evolved into its current meanings related to grip and popularity.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
the action of drawing or pulling something over a surface, especially a road or track.
The car lost traction on the icy road.
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Noun 2
the grip of a tire on a road or a wheel on a rail.
The new tires provide better traction in wet conditions.
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Noun 3
the extent to which a product, idea, etc., gains popularity or acceptance.
The startup gained traction quickly after its launch.
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Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:41