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.

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

Hospital director Srimant Kumar Mishra said the most difficult part is to motivate patients to be operated on.

From Barron's • May 27, 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

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

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!