action
UK: ˈækʃən | US: ˈækʃən
n. the process of doing something to achieve an aim
n. a legal process; a lawsuit
n. the way something moves or functions
n. military combat or maneuvers
n. exciting or energetic activity
action = act<do> + ion<noun suffix>
- act: From Latin actus (a doing, performance), derived from agere (to do, drive).
- ion: A suffix forming nouns of action or state (e.g., creation, decision).
Etymology Origin:
The word action traces back to Latin actio, meaning "a doing" or "performance." The root agere (to drive, do) evolved into act- in Latin, forming verbs like agere and nouns like actus. The suffix -ion was added to create actio, which entered Old French as acion and later Middle English as action. The core idea of "doing" or "movement" has persisted, expanding to legal, military, and general activity contexts.
The government must take immediate action to address the crisis.
She filed a legal action against the company for unfair dismissal.
The movie’s action scenes were thrilling and well-choreographed.
His quick action saved the child from drowning.
The soldiers were praised for their bravery in action.