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.

“This doesn’t motivate them to work,” he said.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 12, 2026

“You would think that would motivate people,” said Tom O’Saben, director of tax content and government relations with the National Association of Tax Professionals.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 9, 2026

He says the hope it engenders can not only help people cope emotionally with a cancer diagnosis but can even motivate them to seek treatment.

From Slate • Mar. 29, 2026

By prioritising this, he is seeking to motivate the party's core support and win back independence minded voters who have drifted away.

From BBC • Mar. 29, 2026

“The paper will serve as my insurance should I fall into rebel hands again. It will motivate you and our friends to do everything possible to secure my release.”

From "Chains" by Laurie Halse Anderson

Vocabulary lists containing motivate

List 5

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!

NAEP Test Words

Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!

Mother's Day Words: What Mothers Do

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!