Definitions

motivate

[moh-tuh-veyt] / ˈmoʊ təˌveɪt /

VERB

stimulate, instigate

Synonyms

STRONGEST

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

STRONG

actuate arouse bring cause dispose draw fire goad goose impel incite induce innervate inspirit lead move pique predetermine predispose quicken rouse sound suggest whet

WEAK

egg on give incentive innerve prevail upon set afoot set astir touch off

Antonyms

STRONGEST

check discourage dissuade halt hinder prevent repress retard stop

STRONG

bore calm delay dishearten dull quiet slow

WEAK

depress disconcert

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.

People familiar with Musk know he focuses on big goals that help motivate employees—and investors.

From Barron's • Jun. 5, 2026

Rams architects Les Snead and Sean McVay can still adroitly motivate a player without pressing too hard.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 4, 2026

I didn't have anyone to motivate me, so I motivated myself.

From BBC • May 28, 2026

“If we can create some risk on the other side, hopefully we can motivate people to do the right thing.”

From Salon • May 27, 2026

Slamming the door does not motivate Axel to race around the car and jump inside; if anything, it leaves him frozen for a moment.

From "A Bird Will Soar" by Alison Green Myers

Vocabulary lists containing motivate

List 5

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NAEP Test Words

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Mother's Day Words: What Mothers Do

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