migration

[ mahy-grey-shuhn ]

noun

1. the process or act of migrating.
2. a migratory movement:

   preparations for the migration.

3. a number or body of persons or animals migrating together.
4. Chemistry. a movement or change of position of atoms within a molecule.
5. Physics. diffusion ( def 3a ).

migration

/ maɪˈɡreɪʃən /

noun

1. the act or an instance of migrating
2. a group of people, birds, etc, migrating in a body
3. chem a movement of atoms, ions, or molecules, such as the motion of ions in solution under the influence of electric fields

migration

/ mī-grā′shən /

1. The seasonal movement of a complete population of animals from one area to another. Migration is usually a response to changes in temperature, food supply, or the amount of daylight, and is often undertaken for the purpose of breeding. Mammals, insects, fish, and birds all migrate. The precise mechanism of navigation during migration is not fully understood, although for birds it is believed that sharp eyesight, sensibility to the Earth's magnetic field, and the positions of the Sun and other stars may play a role.
2. The movement of one atom or more, or of a double bond, from one position to another within a molecule.
3. The movement of ions between electrodes during electrolysis.

Derived Forms

• miˈgrational, adjective

Other Words From

• mi·gration·al adjective
• nonmi·gration noun
• premi·gration adjective
• remi·gration noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of migration¹

First recorded in 1605–15, migration is from the Latin word migrātīon- (stem of migrātiō ). See migrate, -ion

Example Sentences

These measures include speed reductions, both mandatory and voluntary, for ships crossing waters that overlap with whale migration or feeding areas.

From Science Daily

The researchers also found that immune-related genes underwent selective pressures across multiple time periods, likely as ancient populations adapted to new diseases introduced by the spread of agriculture and subsequent migrations.

From Science Daily

This type of climate-security-driven crisis in Australia's neighbouring regions could lead to an increased demand for humanitarian aid, migration support and diplomatic and security assistance.

From Science Daily

The bill, part of efforts to slash overall migration to Australia, had been opposed by most universities who say it would damage the higher education sector and its global reputation.

From BBC

"If Trump conducts mass deportations, ICE would blow past that number very quickly," Adam Isacson, a migration and border expert from the Washington Office on Latin America told the BBC.

From BBC

Related Words

• exodus
• flight
• journey
• movement
• shift
• transfer