motivate

verb

mo·​ti·​vate ˈmō-tə-ˌvāt How to pronounce motivate (audio)
motivated; motivating
Synonyms of motivatenext

transitive verb

: to provide with a motive : impel
questions that excite and motivate youth
She was motivated by a desire to help children.
motivative
ˈmō-tə-ˌvā-tiv How to pronounce motivate (audio)
adjective

Examples of motivate in a Sentence

No one knows what motivated him to act in such a violent way.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
However, the film also remains firmly rooted in the question of what is motivating them to take on this task. — Siddhant Adlakha, Variety, 14 Mar. 2025 Ono’s presence in his life seemingly motivated Lennon to explore new ways of creating music and bring new experiences to his fans. — Angel Saunders, People.com, 14 Mar. 2025 Wagstaffe said that was a motivating factor in seeking the no-contact order for the child. — Caelyn Pender, The Mercury News, 13 Mar. 2025 His decision could motivate other Democrats to vote to advance the bill to the floor on Friday morning. — Ted Johnson, Deadline, 13 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for motivate

Word History

First Known Use

1836, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of motivate was in 1836

Rhymes for motivate

See All Rhymes for motivate

Browse Nearby Words

motivate
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Cite this Entry

“Motivate.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/motivate. Accessed 25 Mar. 2025.

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Kids Definition

motivate

verb
mo·​ti·​vate ˈmōt-ə-ˌvāt How to pronounce motivate (audio)
motivated; motivating
: to provide with a reason for doing something : induce

Medical Definition

motivate

transitive verb
mo·​ti·​vate ˈmōt-ə-ˌvāt How to pronounce motivate (audio)
motivated; motivating
: to provide with a motive or serve as a motive for
motivate patients to change unhealthy lifestyles
motivative
-ˌvāt-iv How to pronounce motivate (audio)
adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on motivate

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for motivate

Nglish: Translation of motivate for Spanish Speakers

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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