: 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
โฆ the litmus test issues of abortion and gay marriage have been losing traction, subordinated to the Iraq war and terrorism.โ๐ Image 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.โ๐ Image Shaila Dewan
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
These tires get good traction on wet roads.
A patch of ice caused the car to lose traction.
She was in traction for three weeks after she broke her hip.
The bill failed to gain traction in the Senate.
We didn't get traction on this idea until the board took interest.
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Both of our experts recommend making a DIY cleaning solution with common household items by pouring baking soda down the drain for traction, followed by white vinegar (about a cup) to keep the drains clean and odor-free.โ๐ Image Lori Keong, Architectural Digest, 2 Apr. 2026 The deeper the water, the sooner a vehicle loses traction on the road.โ๐ Image Kansas City Star Weather Bot, Kansas City Star, 2 Apr. 2026 The account, which impersonated Jonathanโs veterinarian, Joe Hollins, quickly gained traction and sparked concern among fans around the world.โ๐ Image Kelly McGreal, FOXNews.com, 2 Apr. 2026 Against all expectations, the judges spared Henry, and Badinterโs arguments gained traction with the French public.โ๐ Image Lauren Collins, New Yorker, 1 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for traction
Word History
Etymology
Medieval Latin traction-, tractio, from Latin trahere
