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.

What else could motivate him into action quite like some Lorne Michaels mentee?

From Slate • Jun. 11, 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

Businesses have long tracked customers’ search behavior and buying history and used that information, along with other factors like a consumer’s location, to offer promotions and discounts to motivate purchases.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 3, 2026

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

From BBC • May 28, 2026

I can’t imagine what kind of poverty would motivate a person to forget themselves and everyone they loved so their families could get a monthly stipend.

From "Allegiant" by Veronica Roth

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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