Definition

1. Noun:
   • A locomotive powered by electricity: An "electric locomotive" is a railway vehicle that provides the motive power for a train, deriving its energy from an external source of electricity rather than an onboard fuel supply. It typically uses electric motors to drive its wheels.

Usage

• As a subject:
  • The new electric locomotive is much quieter and more efficient than the old diesel models.
• As an object:
  • The railway company has ordered a fleet of modern electric locomotives.
• With prepositions:
  • Power for the electric locomotive is supplied through overhead lines.

Examples

• In a factual statement:
  • An electric locomotive draws current from a third rail or an overhead catenary.
• In a comparative context:
  • The maintenance costs for an electric locomotive are often lower than for a diesel-electric one.

Advanced Usage

• Technical context: In engineering discussions, the term specifies the type of traction system, often contrasted with diesel or steam locomotives.
  • The design of the electric locomotive prioritizes regenerative braking to save energy.

Variants and Related Words

• Electric multiple unit (EMU): A train set where the electric motors are distributed along multiple carriages, not concentrated in a single locomotive.
• Diesel-electric locomotive: A locomotive that uses a diesel engine to generate electricity for traction motors.
• Traction motor: The specific electric motor that drives the wheels of a locomotive or train.

Synonyms

• Electric engine: A less formal synonym, though "locomotive" is the precise railway term.
• Electric traction unit: A more technical synonym emphasizing the function of providing motive power.

Related Phrases

• Powered by electricity: A descriptive phrase indicating the energy source.
  • The entire suburban network is now served by trains powered by electricity.
• Overhead line equipment: The infrastructure (wires and supports) that supplies power to many electric locomotives.

Noun

1. a locomotive that is powered by an electric motor