motion

Definition

  • noun: an act or process of moving
  • noun: an act, process, or instance of changing place
  • verb: to make a movement of your hand, head, etc., that tells someone to move or act in a certain way
  • verb: to signal by a movement or gesture
  • synonyms: movement, zeitgeist, act

Examples

  • Sources say that the governor has 'set the wheels in motion' for a run for the presidency. [=the governor has started to run for president]

  • They will be taking steps to 'set/put' the divorce proceedings 'in motion'. [=to begin the divorce proceedings]

  • She made a 'motion' that the meeting (should) be adjourned. = She made a 'motion' to adjourn (the meeting).

Movie quotes

  • (..) - I yield. In view of the gentleman's concern for the senators - - and the fact that he's been talking for / hours and must be tired, - - would he permit a motion to recess until the morning, - - at which time he may be better able to continue his profound babbling? No, don't. Ask him. Mr. President, what happens to me in the morning? I mean, about my having this floor to go on with my babbling. If the Senator permits this motion, - - he won't have the floor to babble with or anything else. Unless he's recognized first by this chair. As I was saying, gentlemen... (..)
    1939 Mr. Smith Goes to Washington