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.

“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

If you think huge, you will expand your vision and motivate yourself to go beyond perceived limitations.

From MarketWatch • May 6, 2026

“The shutdown will add pressure and motivate the negotiations,” Vakil said.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 28, 2026

This would guarantee sales for the drug companies and motivate them to produce the drugs at cheap prices.

From "Mountains Beyond Mountains" by Tracy Kidder and Michael French

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!