traction

noun

1. (uncountable, usually)The act of pulling something along a surface using motive power.

   “Horse traction was used for all but 23 years of the tramway's life.”

2. (uncountable, usually)The condition of being so pulled.
3. (uncountable, usually)Grip.
4. (uncountable, usually)The pulling power of an engine or animal.
5. (uncountable, usually)The adhesive friction of a wheel etc on a surface.
6. (uncountable, usually)Progress in or momentum toward achieving a goal, especially in gaining support, recognition, or popularity.
7. (uncountable, usually)Progress in or momentum toward achieving a goal, especially in gaining support, recognition, or popularity.
8. (uncountable, usually)Progress in or momentum toward achieving a goal, especially in gaining support, recognition, or popularity.

   “Despite this somewhat late start, the field of study has gained great traction globally, and since 2015 has even had its own journal: Linguistic Landscape: An International Journal.”

9. (uncountable, usually)A mechanically applied sustained pull, especially to a limb.
10. (uncountable, usually)Collectively, the locomotives of a railroad, especially electric locomotives.

verb

1. (transitive)To apply a sustained pull to (a limb, etc.).