Definition of traction
1a
: 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
2
: the act of drawing : the state of being drawn
also
: the force exerted in drawing
3
: the support or interest that is needed for something to make progress or succeed
a product that is starting to gain traction among consumers … the litmus test issues of abortion and gay marriage have been losing traction, subordinated to the Iraq war and terrorism.— Thomas B. Edsall As many economists have noted, cutting spending is the worst thing people with means can do for the economy right now. But that argument seems to have little traction, especially because even those with steady paychecks and no fear of losing their job have seen their net worth decline and their retirement savings evaporate.— Shaila Dewan
4
: the drawing of a vehicle by motive power
also
: the motive power employed
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Merriam-Webster unabridged
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Time Traveler for traction
The first known use of traction was in 1608
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