Motion
ˈməʊʃən
Definitions
3 meaningsThe act or process of changing position or place; movement.
ˈməʊʃən
The act or process of moving or being moved.
The motion of the train was smooth and relaxing.
💡 Simply: Imagine a car driving down the street! That's *motion* – it's when something is changing its position. It's like running, walking, or even the wind blowing.
👶 For kids: When something is moving, like a car or a ball rolling, that's motion!
More Examples
The artist captured the motion of the dancer in the sculpture.
The sudden motion of the boat made me seasick.
How It's Used
"The laws of physics describe the motion of objects."
"The gentle motion of the waves was calming."
A formal proposal or suggestion put forward for discussion and typically for a vote by a deliberative assembly or meeting.
ˈməʊʃən
A formal proposal or suggestion put forward for discussion.
The chairman called for a vote on the motion.
💡 Simply: At a meeting, someone might make a *motion*, which is like saying, "I suggest we do this." It's a formal way to propose an idea for a decision.
👶 For kids: In a meeting, a motion is like an idea that someone wants to vote on!
More Examples
The motion to increase funding for the project was approved.
She seconded the motion to close the debate.
How It's Used
"The senator made a motion to adjourn the meeting."
"He proposed a motion to accept the report."
To signal or direct someone with a gesture.
ˈməʊʃən
To direct someone to do something.
The waiter motioned us to our table.
💡 Simply: When you *motion* someone, you're using a hand movement (or something similar) to tell them what to do, like waving them over.
👶 For kids: When you motion, you use your hands or head to tell someone what to do!
More Examples
She motioned for him to be quiet.
The security guard motioned the driver to stop.
How It's Used
"The lawyer motioned for silence in the courtroom."
"The teacher motioned for the student to come forward."
Idioms & expressions
call to motion
To signal someone or something to start an action.
"The conductor gave the call to motion, and the orchestra began to play."
in slow motion
At a slower speed than normal, often used to describe a replay or something seemingly slow.
"The replay showed the goal in slow motion."
From Middle French *motion* (14th c.), from Latin *mōtiō*, *mōtiōnem* (“a moving, a motion”), from *movēre* (“to move”).
The word *motion* has been used since the 14th century, initially to describe movement or the act of moving.
Memory tip
Think of a movie – it's a series of still pictures that give the *motion* of life.
Word Origin
"to move"