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.

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

From BBC • May 28, 2026

Learning with others, or having the support of others, can help motivate us to learn.

From Science Daily • May 22, 2026

“Gavin is the candidate who can motivate both the left and the center,” Hastings told The Times, referring to Gov. Gavin Newsom.

From Los Angeles Times • May 10, 2026

Nintendo is releasing games that are exclusive to the Switch 2, which could motivate people to buy the device.

From Barron's • May 8, 2026

She hoped that would motivate Bill to make some changes.

From "The Other Wes Moore: One Name, Two Fates" by Wes Moore

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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