motive power
The term "motive power" refers to the energy or force that drives movement in machines, vehicles, and systems, and is crucial in fields like engineering, physics, and rail transport.
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Definition
B2General
(technical)The energy or force that provides movement or propulsion to a machine or vehicle.
Example
- Electricity serves as the motive power for many modern trains.
- The wind acts as the motive power for sailing boats.
C1Mechanical Engineering
(technical)The source of mechanical energy used to operate machinery or equipment.
Example
- Steam engines were once the primary source of motive power in factories.
- Hydraulic systems use fluid pressure as motive power.
B2Rail Transport
(colloquial)The locomotives that operate on a railway.
Example
- The railway company invested in new motive power to improve efficiency.
- Steam locomotives were an early form of motive power on railways.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "motive power":
pulling powerpower carprime moverdriving forcesteam powerpower unit