Definitions

incentivize

[in-sen-ti-vahyz] / ɪnˈsɛn tɪˌvaɪz /

VERB

incite to action or greater effort often with a reward

Synonyms

STRONGEST

encourage motivate

STRONG

boost excite stimulate

WEAK

actuate energize galvanize impel incite innervate inspire lead move propel rouse tap

Antonyms

STRONGEST

deter disincentivize

STRONG

discourage

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The idea of guaranteeing future demand to incentivize innovation was borrowed from vaccine development.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 18, 2026

Among other provisions, the bill would make it easier to build and finance manufactured homes, reduce builder regulations and use grants to incentivize home development.

From Barron's • Jun. 16, 2026

Parents can also incentivize their children to invest more.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 8, 2026

“The projects we incentivize have to fit this heartland, middle America approach to things,” says Tennessee deputy governor Stuart McWhorter.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 15, 2026

It was supposed to incentivize companies to consider the fate of their products and spur innovation in material redesign.

From Los Angeles Times • May 7, 2026

Vocabulary lists containing incentivize

The Summer of Bitter and Sweet

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