Meaning & Definition of word "Motivate"

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    Motivate

    /ˈmoʊ.tɪ.veɪt/

    verb:

    • 1. to provide someone with a reason for doing something; to encourage or inspire someone to act.
      • Example: The coach gave an inspiring speech to motivate the team before the championship game.
    • 2. to stimulate interest in or enthusiasm for doing something.
      • Example: The promise of a reward can motivate students to work harder in school.
    • 3. to cause someone to act in a particular way.
      • Example: Peer pressure can motivate teenagers to make choices they wouldn't typically make.
    • 4. to give a reason for doing something.
      • Example: The manager tried to motivate his staff by explaining how their work affected the company's success.

    Etymology

    From the Latin 'motivus' meaning 'causing motion' and 'movere' meaning 'to move'.

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    motivate someone:

    To encourage or inspire a person to take action.

    self-motivation:

    The ability to inspire oneself to take action.

    motivation factor:

    A factor that contributes to someone’s motivation to act.

    Related Words

    motivation:

    The reason or reasons one has for acting or behaving in a particular way.

    motivational:

    Relating to the reason or reasons for acting.

    motive:

    A reason for doing something.

    Slang Meanings of motivate

    Meaning: Get pumped

    Example Sentence: I need some music to get pumped for the workout.

    Meaning: Get your fire going

    Example Sentence: Watch this video and get your fire going!