movement definition

1. The act of moving; change of place or posture; transference, by any means, from one situation to another; natural or appropriate motion; progress; advancement; as, the movement of an army in marching or manoeuvreing; the movement of a wheel or a machine; the party of movement.

2. Motion of the mind or feelings; emotion.

3. Manner or style of moving; as, a slow, or quick, or sudden, movement.

4. The rhythmical progression, pace, and tempo of a piece. "Any change of time is a change of movement." . One of the several strains or pieces, each complete in itself, with its own time and rhythm, which make up a larger work; as, the several movements of a suite or a symphony.

5. <mechanics> A system of mechanism for transmitting motion of a definite character, or for transforming motion; as, the wheelwork of a watch.

<medicine> Febrille movement See Kinesiatrics. Movement of the bowels, an evacuation or stool; a passage or discharge.

Synonyms: Motion.

Movement, Motion. Motion expresses a general idea of not being at rest; movement is oftener used to express a definite, regulated motion, especially. A progress.

Origin: F. Mouvement. See Move, and cf. Moment.