WordGarden.io
Back to search

locomotor

C2
adjective

Pronunciation

UK

  • /lˌəʊkəmˈəʊtə/

US

  • /ˌloʊkəˈmoʊtər/

Description

The word "locomotor" sounds like it belongs in a sci-fi movie, doesn't it? But it simply describes something connected with movement from one place to another. Think of the muscles in your legs: they are part of your locomotor system because they help you walk. The word comes from Latin roots linked to place and movement. It is most often used for living bodies, especially in biology and medicine. You might read about locomotor skills, locomotor muscles, or locomotor disorders when people talk about how the body moves and how the brain helps control that movement. You will not hear "locomotor" very often in everyday conversation, but it is common in scientific and medical writing.

Examples

  1. 1

    Child development

    The therapist watched how the child walked, ran, and climbed to assess his locomotor skills.

  2. 2

    Rehabilitation

    After the stroke, she began locomotor training on a treadmill.

    • Phrase

      locomotor training

      rehabilitation exercises that help someone walk better

  3. 3

    Animal research

    The study found that the drug reduced locomotor activity in mice.

    • Phrase

      locomotor activity

      how much an animal moves around

Forms and spellings

1 form open this card.

Main spelling

  • locomotoradjective