traction engine

noun

1. a locomotive operating on surfaces other than tracks and pulling heavy loads, as fallen logs.

traction engine

noun

1. a steam-powered locomotive used, esp formerly, for drawing heavy loads along roads or over rough ground. It usually has two large rear wheels and a rope drum for haulage purposes

Word History and Origins

Origin of traction engine¹

First recorded in 1855–60

Example Sentences

Fact is that opposition chartered every available traction-engine to bring up rural electorate.

From Project Gutenberg

Some of the big harvesters that cut and thresh the wheat are drawn by a traction-engine instead of horses.

From Project Gutenberg

The poor girl is no more guilty than if a traction engine had run over her or a wild beast had broken on her out of his cage.

From Project Gutenberg

If buying a traction engine, consider also the roads and an engines pulling qualities.

From Project Gutenberg

The gearing by which the traction wheels of a traction engine are made to drive the engine is an important item.

From Project Gutenberg