traction
noun
Thomas B. EdsallShaila Dewan
Did you know?
A tractor is something that pulls something else. We usually use the word for a piece of farm machinery, but it's also the name of the part of a big truck that includes the engine and the cab. Tractors get terrific traction, because of their powerful engines and the deep ridges on their huge wheels. A cross-country skier needs traction to kick herself forward, but doesn't want it to slow her down when she's gliding, so the bottom of the skis may have a "fish-scale" surface that permits both of these at the same time.
Examples of traction in a Sentence
Prarthana Prakash, Fortune Europe, 15 Apr. 2024
Two approaches are gaining traction as California confronts the issue of retail theft, which was propelled to the top of the state’s political agenda this year by viral videos of smash-and-grab robberies and the proliferation of drugstores locking up basic goods.
—Anabel Sosa, Los Angeles Times, 10 Apr. 2024
These Walking Rain Boots are made from waterproof rubber and have a durable traction sole, 1-inch heel, and adjustable side buckles to ensure a perfect fit.
—Toni Sutton, Peoplemag, 9 Apr. 2024
As the weather improves and wanderlust beckons, the idea of alternative accommodations offering a unique experience beyond traditional hotels, hostels, or shared Airbnb options is gaining traction.
—Tina Charisma, Essence, 8 Apr. 2024
Lightly padded insoles work wonders for providing support throughout travel days and beyond, while rubber soles offer essential traction against slick or uneven surfaces.
—Merrell Readman, Travel + Leisure, 6 Apr. 2024
Decades of campaigns at the Mercedes plant failed to gain enough traction to get to a union vote.
—Stephan Bisaha, NPR, 5 Apr. 2024
Panel members also revived a corporate tax overhaul that state Senate leadership proposed last year, but failed to gain any traction.
—Dan Walters, The Mercury News, 5 Apr. 2024
Whether or not the new ad currencies will gain traction will depend on Madison Avenue.
—Brian Steinberg, Variety, 3 Apr. 2024
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'traction.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Dictionary Entries Near traction
Cite this Entry
“Traction.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/traction. Accessed 23 Apr. 2024.
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traction
noun
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