~ 1
■ verb
1》 find by investigation.
↘find or describe the origin or development of.
2》 follow the course or position of with one's eye, mind, or finger.
3》 copy (a drawing, map, or design) by drawing over its lines on a superimposed piece of transparent paper.
↘draw (a pattern or line).
4》 give an outline of; describe.
■ noun
1》 a mark, object, or other indication of the existence or passing of something.
↘a physical change in the brain associated with a memory.
2》 a very small quantity.
↘a barely discernible indication: a ~ of a smile.
3》 a line or pattern corresponding to something which is being recorded or measured.
↘the projection or intersection of a curve on or with a plane.
4》 a procedure to ~ something, such as the source of a telephone call.
5》 Mathematics the sum of the elements in the principal diagonal of a square matrix.
6》 N. Amer. & W. Indian a path or track.
Derivatives
~ability noun
~able adjective
~less adjective
Origin
ME: from OFr. ~ (n.), tracier (v.), based on L. tractus (see tract 1 ).
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~ 2
■ noun each of the two side straps, chains, or ropes by which a horse is attached to a vehicle that it is pulling.
Phrases
kick over the ~s Brit. become insubordinate or reckless.
Origin
ME: from OFr. trais , plural of trait (see trait ).