# locomotive

/ˌɫoʊkəˈmoʊtɪv/ (US) · /lˌəʊkəmˈəʊtɪv/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/locomotive
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. train engine

noun · CEFR B2

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

For teachers: the self-propelled vehicle used for hauling railroad cars.

- The steam locomotive puffed white smoke as it pulled the heavy train up the mountain.
- The museum features a restored Victorian locomotive, showcasing the intricate ironwork and massive pistons that once powered the transcontinental express.

### 2. economic driver

noun · CEFR C1 · Academic · Formal

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

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

- For many years, the United States acted as the locomotive of the global economy.
- Economists debated whether the emerging markets could serve as a collective locomotive to pull the global financial system out of its current stagnation.

### 3. relating to movement

adjective · CEFR C1 · Technical · Academic

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

For teachers: pertaining to locomotion or the ability to move independently.

- The scientist studied the locomotive habits of deep-sea creatures.
- The patient's locomotive functions were significantly impaired following the spinal injury, requiring intensive physical therapy to regain basic mobility.

## Examples

- The steam locomotive pulled the heavy train up the hill.
- The old diesel locomotive was replaced by a modern electric model to reduce carbon emissions.
- Economists often describe the manufacturing sector as the locomotive of the national economy, as its expansion creates a ripple effect that stimulates growth in logistics and services.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.