motivational

American  

[moh-tuh-vey-shuh-nl] / ˌmoʊ təˈveɪ ʃə nl /

adjective

1. of or relating to motivation, a person's reason for acting in a certain way.

   The research investigated the motivational factors influencing people’s decision to volunteer with community organizations.

2. inspiring or seeking to inspire people to act in a certain way, especially so as to overcome obstacles and achieve success, happiness, etc..

   He mentors inner city youth, telling his motivational story at local schools.

   Since her diagnosis, she has become an HIV/AIDS educator, motivational speaker, and activist.

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Other Word Forms

• antimotivational adjective
• nonmotivational adjective

Etymology

Origin of motivational

motivation ( def. ) + -al ¹ ( def. )

Example Sentences

Through Stacy’s fetching sadness, we come to know that maybe a certain motivational speaker was right.

From Salon • Mar. 23, 2026

Meanwhile, Emery said he used the struggles of their Premier League rivals in the Champions League as a motivational tool before kick-off.

From BBC • Mar. 12, 2026

The former Christie’s auctioneer, author, podcaster and motivational speaker is normally unflappable on the podium.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 24, 2026

As January drew to a close, I weaned myself off the motivational videos.

From Slate • Feb. 15, 2026

I try to prepare myself for Dara’s date with Elliott—you know, motivational words like, “You don’t hate your fave cousin” and “Who needs boys anyway?”

From "Legendary Frybread Drive-In" by Cynthia Leitich Smith