ambulation

[ am-byuh-ley-shuhn ]

noun

1. the act of walking or moving from place to place:

   The concept of “bumming a ride” probably came into being as soon as humans discovered modes of transportation superior to ambulation.

2. the ability to walk or move; mobility:

   A therapeutic yoga program was created for clients with limited ambulation or other physical challenges.

Word History and Origins

Origin of ambulation¹

First recorded in 1535–45; from Latin ambulātiōn-, stem of ambulātiōn “act of walking,” equivalent to ambulāt(us) + -iō -ion ( def ); ambulate ( def )

Example Sentences

"This is especially true for lower extremity recovery. People can struggle to regain balance, stability and gait coordination for daily life activities and even proper ambulation."

From Science Daily

The reduction in pain meds also decrease nausea, itching and constipation and increase nutrition and ambulation.

From Washington Post

Most of us who are blessed with the gift of ambulation have done this at least once or twice in our lives.

From Slate

The project took him and the company through dozens of iterations, including the faceless “Extra,” which had stiff arms and no means of ambulation.

From Washington Post

Most impactful was our observation of Nick helping a customer with his winter coat and safe ambulation out of the restaurant to his waiting automobile.

From Seattle Times

Related Words

• act
• gesture
• passage