motivate

[moh-tuh-veyt]

verb (used with object)

motivated, motivating 

1. to provide with a motive, or a cause or reason to act; incite; impel.

   Synonyms: cause, prompt, provoke, move, induce

motivate

/ ˈməʊtɪˌveɪt /

verb

1. (tr) to give incentive to

Other Word Forms

• motivator noun
• demotivate verb (used with object)
• nonmotivated adjective
• remotivate verb (used with object)
• unmotivated adjective
• unmotivating adjective
• well-motivated adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of motivate¹

First recorded in 1860–65; motive + -ate ¹

Example Sentences

Roger’s indignation over gentrification isn’t enough, however, to motivate him to meet a deadline on what he now considers a disingenuous, assigned piece on the “evolving” Brooklyn.

From Los Angeles Times

The judge at Londonderry Crown Court said both defendants had "acted deliberately" and been "entirely motivated by financial gain".

From BBC

Israel has alleged that the ICJ case is motivated by antisemitism.

From BBC

Is passion what motivates you to continue making music, or what would you say is your motivation?

From Los Angeles Times

In that programme, Atack revealed she was sent hundreds of explicit pictures and messages every day, and asked what motivates the men behind them and what could be done to stop them.

From BBC

Related Words

• drive 
• excite 
• galvanize 
• incline 
• inspire 
• persuade 
• prompt 
• propel 
• provoke 
• spark 
• spur 
• sway 
• trigger