Definitions

motivator

[moh-tuh-vey-ter] / ˈmoʊ təˌveɪ tər /

NOUN

doer

Synonyms

STRONGEST

achiever

STRONG

dynamo

WEAK

busy person energetic person man of action mover and shaker risk-taker woman of action

NOUN

gadfly

Synonyms

STRONG

annoyance energizer excitant irritant mover pest prod spur

WEAK

stimulator

NOUN

prime mover

Synonyms

STRONGEST

instigator mover

WEAK

author creator drive initial force motive force power source primum mobile

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.

Mayweather is 49 and Pacquiao 47, yet another staggering payday serves as a great motivator.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 26, 2026

“He’s a worker and I think he’s a motivator and I’m all in,” Roberts said.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 11, 2025

Self-will is a powerful motivator, and it may have served you well up until now.

From MarketWatch • Dec. 10, 2025

Beyond money, Europe’s looming regulatory push is a motivator to move.

From The Wall Street Journal • Oct. 5, 2025

I believe that economic incentive is crucial as a motivator, especially in a consumer-driven society.

From "Counting by 7s" by Holly Goldberg Sloan