action

☆

(ăkˈshən)

1. The state or process of acting or doing: The medical team went into action.
2. Something done or accomplished; a deed. See Usage Note at act.
3. Organized activity to accomplish an objective: a problem requiring drastic action.
4. The causation of change by the exertion of power or a natural process: the action of waves on a beach; the action of a drug on blood pressure.
5. A movement or a series of movements, as of an actor.
6. Manner of movement: a horse with fine action.
7. Habitual or vigorous activity; energy: a woman of action.
8. Behavior or conduct. Often used in the plural.
9. a. The operating parts of a mechanism.
   b. The manner in which such parts operate.
   c. The manner in which a musical instrument can be played; playability: a piano with quick action.
10. The series of events and episodes that form the plot of a story or play.
11. The appearance of animation of a figure in painting or sculpture.
12. Law A judicial proceeding whose purpose is to obtain relief at the hands of a court.
13. a. Armed encounter; combat: missing in action.
    b. An engagement between troops or ships: fought a rear-guard action.
14. The most important or exciting work or activity in a specific field or area: always heads for where the action is.

Related Forms:

• acˈtion·less adjective