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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.

In a 2022 AAA survey, 77% of respondents said saving money on gas was their primary motivator for purchasing an electric vehicle.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 10, 2026

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

From MarketWatch • Dec. 10, 2025

That’s the greatest motivator for what he does.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 4, 2025

Safety is the biggest motivator for Steven, who cited cases such as the triple death crash in St Mellons in 2023 when it took police two days to find the car involved.

From BBC • Nov. 29, 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