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

It’s pure paranoid fantasy that blocks out the complex reality of a world in which the climate crisis will inevitably increase migration pressures.

From Salon

The most hardline migration-sceptics argue that the deception goes even deeper – they claim that it is the result of a fundamental presumption baked into the political system in favour of large-scale migration.

From BBC

And it’s unlikely the migration south will stop once Donald Trump is inaugurated and occupies the Oval Office once more.

From BBC

Many detail seeing the impacts of illegal migration firsthand, but voters are divided on how to handle it.

From BBC

They could lead to more poverty, migration, some economists say.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

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