locomotive

1 of 2

adjective

lo·​co·​mo·​tive ˌlō-kə-ˈmō-tiv 

1

: locomotory

2

: of or relating to travel

3

: of, relating to, or being a machine that moves about by operation of its own mechanism

locomotive

2 of 2

noun

1

: a self-propelled vehicle that runs on rails and is used for moving railroad cars

2

: a school or college cheer characterized by a slow beginning and a progressive increase in speed

Examples of locomotive in a Sentence

Adjective

the locomotive ability of spiders

Recent Examples on the Web

Adjective

Eng framed the locomotive purchase as one piece of a broader strategy that also includes track upgrades, bidirectional service and incremental electrification. —State House News Service, Boston Herald, 1 May 2026

From the design and engineering of passenger coaches to the precision of locomotive overhauls, digital twin technology enables predictive maintenance and performance optimization, ensuring safer and more efficient travel. —Tobias Bauer, Charlotte Observer, 6 Apr. 2026

Noun

In October, the historic steam locomotive transforms into the Ghost Train, while Christmas lights and Santa are a major draw in November and December. —Leigh Ann Henion, Southern Living, 9 May 2026

State patrol officials said the crash derailed six passenger cars and two locomotives, ripped open the truck’s tank of fuel and damaged the train tracks. —Lauren Penington, Denver Post, 7 May 2026

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1612, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Noun

1829, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for locomotive

• automotive
• electromotive
• emotive
• promotive
• motive
• votive

Kids Definition

locomotive

1 of 2 adjective

lo·​co·​mo·​tive ˌlō-kə-ˈmōt-iv 

1

: of or relating to locomotion

2

: of, relating to, or being a locomotive

locomotive

2 of 2 noun

: an engine that moves under its own power

especially : one that hauls cars on a railroad

Medical Definition

locomotive

adjective

lo·​co·​mo·​tive ˌlō-kə-ˈmōt-iv 

: locomotor sense 1

locomotive organs include flagella, cilia, pseudopodia, and limbs