motion

mo-tion · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    The action or process of moving or being moved.

  2. 2.

    To direct or signal someone with a gesture.

  3. 3.

    A formal proposal put to a legislature or committee for debate and vote.

  4. 4.

    A gesture or movement, especially of the hand or head.

  5. 5.

    (Law) An application to a court for a ruling or order.

Forms

plural: motions

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    set in motion — To cause something to start happening
  • •
    go through the motions — To do something without enthusiasm or conviction
  • •
    slow motion — Movement shown at a slower speed than normal
  • •
    motion picture — A movie or film

Related words

Antonyms: rest, stasis, stillness
See also: gesture, movement, proposal
Synonyms: action, gesture, movement, proposal

Etymology

From Latin motio ("movement"), from movere ("to move"). Entered English via Old French mocion.