Main Entry: trac·tion

Pronunciation: \ˈtrak-shən\

Function: noun

Etymology: Medieval Latin traction-, tractio, from Latin trahere

Date: 1608

1 : the act of drawing : the state of being drawn; also : the force exerted in drawing
2 : the drawing of a vehicle by motive power; also : the motive power employed
3 a : the adhesive friction of a body on a surface on which it moves <the traction of a wheel on a rail> b : a pulling force exerted on a skeletal structure (as in a fracture) by means of a special device <a traction splint>; also : a state of tension created by such a pulling force <a leg in traction>

— trac·tion·al \-shnəl, -shə-n^əl\ adjective