locomotive
- a self-propelled, vehicular engine, powered by steam, a diesel, or electricity, for pulling or, sometimes, pushing a train or individual railroad cars.
- an organized group cheer, usually led by a cheerleader, as at a football or basketball game, that begins slowly and progressively increases in speed in such a way as to suggest a steam locomotive.
- Archaic. any self-propelled vehicle.
- of or relating to locomotives.
- of, relating to, or aiding in locomotion or movement from place to place: the locomotive powers of most animals.
- moving or traveling by means of its own mechanism or powers.
- serving to produce such movement; adapted for or used in locomotion: locomotive organs.
- having the power of locomotion: an animal that is locomotive at birth.
Origin of locomotive
Examples from the Web for locomotive
Contemporary Examples of locomotive
When it was first introduced some 170 years ago, the locomotive ran on a domestic fuel source.
His torso was nude and his legs had been amputated by the locomotive engine.
Another time, I was shooting a locomotive and it blew up, and some of the stuff got in my air scoop, but I managed to fly it back.
Dr. Roscoe Brown, A Real-Life Tuskegee Airman, Tells His ‘Red Tails’ StoryMarlow Stern
January 19, 2012
When a tiger attacks a zookeeper, it is "making a noise like a locomotive."
Historical Examples of locomotive
He was still exerting his strength to the utmost when the whistle of the locomotive was heard.
Brave and BoldHoratio Alger
People have so much to say about an ant's strength, and an elephant's, and a locomotive's.
Tom Sawyer AbroadMark Twain (Samuel Clemens)
The sound was exactly that of steam roaring from a locomotive's safety valve.
The Leopard WomanStewart Edward White
The sharp and deep groanings of the locomotive had already awakened me.
My Double LifeSarah Bernhardt
The motor on the locomotive as a maximum 1½ horse-power when so much is needed.
locomotive
- Also called: locomotive enginea self-propelled engine driven by steam, electricity, or diesel power and used for drawing trains along railway tracks
- (as modifier)a locomotive shed; a locomotive works
- of or relating to locomotion
- moving or able to move, as by self-propulsion