in a general sense. See Act.

in mechanics, the motion produced by the impulse of one body upon another. See Mechanics.

in ethics, denotes the external signs or expressions of the sentiments of a moral agent. See Ethics, Metaphysics.

in poetry, the same with the subject or fable. Critics generally distinguish two kinds, the principal and the incidental. The principal action is what is generally called the fable; and the incidental an episode. See Drama.

in oratory, is the outward deportment of the orator, or the accommodation of his countenance, voice, and gesture, to the subject of which he is treating. See Eloquence.

in a theatrical sense, is much the same with action in oratory; the one adopts his action to an assumed character, the other is supposed to feel in reality what he expresses.

in painting and sculpture, is the posture of a statue or picture, serving to express some passion, &c.

among physicians. See Motions.

in commerce, is a term used abroad for a part or share in a company's stock or capital.

in Scots law, is a demand made before a judge for obtaining what we are legally intitled to demand, and is more commonly known by the name of law-suit or process. See Law, title, Actions.