Lokomotív

Lokomotív is a term primarily used in some Slavic languages, meaning "locomotive". A locomotive is a self-propelled railway vehicle that provides the motive power for a train. It does not carry passengers or freight itself but pulls or pushes other vehicles, called carriages or wagons, that do.

Historically, steam locomotives were the first type of locomotive. They burn fuel, such as coal or wood, to heat water in a boiler, producing steam that drives pistons connected to the wheels. These were the dominant form of railway motive power for over a century.

In the early 20th century, diesel locomotives began to emerge. These use diesel engines to generate power, either directly driving the wheels or generating electricity to power electric motors. Diesel locomotives are generally more efficient and easier to operate than steam locomotives.

More recently, electric locomotives have become increasingly common, especially on high-traffic routes. They draw electricity from an external source, such as overhead lines or a third rail, and use electric motors to propel the train. Electric locomotives are known for their high power output, efficiency, and environmental friendliness, as they produce no direct emissions. The specific term "lokomotív" would refer to any of these types of machines within the context of languages where it is used.