locomotive

UK: ˌləʊkəˈməʊtɪv | US: ˌloʊkəˈmoʊtɪv

Definition

  1. n. a powered rail vehicle used for pulling trains

  2. adj. relating to or capable of movement

Structure
loco <place>mot <move>ive <adjective suffix>
Etymology

The word "locomotive" combines Latin roots:

  • "loco" (from "locus," meaning "place")
  • "mot" (from "movere," meaning "to move")
  • The suffix "-ive" turns it into an adjective or noun.
    Originally used in the phrase "locomotive engine" (early 19th century), it described machines capable of moving from place to place, later narrowing to rail transport. The logic reflects the transition from stationary steam engines to mobile ones.
Examples

  1. The steam locomotive revolutionized transportation in the 1800s.

  2. The museum displays a historic electric locomotive.

  3. Locomotive power is essential for heavy freight trains.

  4. Engineers repaired the faulty locomotive overnight.

  5. His research focuses on the efficiency of modern locomotives.