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

The company suspended service due to a possible strike by the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers rail workers union, which is seeking a labor contract for the transit agency’s locomotive engineers. —Isabela Raygoza, Billboard, 17 May 2025

Plus, on the second weekend of each month, the Chula Vista Live Streams provide free train rides on mini steam locomotive trains that go around the park from noon to 2:30 p.m. 4548 Sweetwater Road, Bonita. —Carlos Rico, San Diego Union-Tribune, 5 May 2025

Noun

The Boilermaker Special resembles a Victorian-era steam locomotive. —Madison E. Goldberg, People.com, 26 Apr. 2025

The Boilermaker Special, a vehicle that resembles a Victorian-era steam locomotive, is Purdue's official mascot. —Meredith Deliso, ABC News, 25 Apr. 2025

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