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locomotive

n. · adj.
US //ˌɫoʊkəˈmoʊtɪv// UK //lˌəʊkəmˈəʊtɪv// lo·co·mo·tive
  1. 1 train engine (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    the powerful vehicle at the front of a train that pulls the carriages.

    the self-propelled vehicle used for hauling railroad cars.

    Example

    The steam locomotive puffed white smoke as it pulled the heavy train up the mountain.

    Example

    The museum features a restored Victorian locomotive, showcasing the intricate ironwork and massive pistons that once powered the transcontinental express.
  2. 2 economic driver (n.)
    C1 Advanced Academic Formal Economics

    a country or industry that is so strong it helps the whole world's economy grow.

    a nation or sector that acts as a primary driver of global or regional economic growth through high demand and imports.

    Example

    For many years, the United States acted as the locomotive of the global economy.

    Example

    Economists debated whether the emerging markets could serve as a collective locomotive to pull the global financial system out of its current stagnation.
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  1. 3 relating to movement (adj.)
    C1 Advanced Technical Academic Science

    relating to the ability to move from one place to another.

    pertaining to locomotion or the ability to move independently.

    Example

    The scientist studied the locomotive habits of deep-sea creatures.

    Example

    The patient's locomotive functions were significantly impaired following the spinal injury, requiring intensive physical therapy to regain basic mobility.
Origin

From French locomotif, from Latin locō (literally “from a place”) (ablative of locus (“place”)) + Vulgar Latin mōtivus (“moving”) (see motive). In the rail transport sense, ellipsis of locomotive (steam) engine, attested from 1814.

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