motivation

American  

[moh-tuh-vey-shuhn] / ˌmoʊ təˈveɪ ʃən /

noun

1. the act or an instance of motivating, or providing with a reason to act in a certain way.

   I don't understand what her motivation was for quitting her job.

   Synonyms:

   impetus, cause, inducement, inspiration, motive

2. the state or condition of being motivated or having a strong reason to act or accomplish something.

   We know that these students have strong motivation to learn.

3. something that motivates; inducement; incentive.

   Clearly, the company's long-term motivation is profit.

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Other Word Forms

• demotivation noun
• motivational adjective
• motivative adjective
• nonmotivation noun
• remotivation noun

Etymology

Origin of motivation

First recorded in 1870–75; motive + -ation

Example Sentences

He had suffered mental health issues and had expressed "motivation" to move away from offending.

From BBC • Apr. 4, 2026

However, the researchers note that the findings show a correlation, not cause and effect, and that factors like motivation or self-discipline may also influence outcomes.

From Science Daily • Mar. 30, 2026

Moreover, Rajadhyaksha emphasizes that a sound motivation for preferring the U.S. at this juncture is that it’s an “energy powerhouse.”

From MarketWatch • Mar. 26, 2026

It’s a simple but primal character motivation that Beetz sells with a wild-eyed ferocity.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 26, 2026

Everyone was, at a minimal estimate, “a good egg” or “a decent sort,” and motivation was never judged to be at variance with outward show.

From "Atonement" by Ian McEwan

Related Words

• catalyst
• desire
• encouragement
• impetus
• impulse
• incentive
• inclination
• interest
• motive
• reason
• wish