action

noun

• 1the fact or process of doing something, typically to achieve an aim:he vowed to take tougher action against persistent offenders if there is a breach of regulations, we will take action
• the way in which something such as a chemical has an effect or influence:the seeds require the catalytic action of water to release hotness
• armed conflict:servicemen listed as missing in action during the war
• a military engagement:a rearguard action
• the events represented in a story or play:the action is set in the country
• informal exciting or notable activity:the nonstop action of mountain biking people in the media want to be where the action is
• informal betting.
• [as exclamation] used by a movie director as a command to begin:lights, camera, action!

• 2a thing done; an act:she frequently questioned his actions I would not be responsible for my actions if I saw him
• a legal process; a lawsuit:an action for damages
• a gesture or movement:his actions emphasized his words

• 3a manner or style of doing something, typically the way in which a mechanism works or a person moves: a high paddle action in canoeing the weapon has speed and smooth action
• the mechanism that makes a machine or instrument work:a piano with an escapement action