motivator

[moh-tuh-vey-ter]

noun

1. a person or thing that gives people an incentive or reason for acting.

   He's a great teacher and coach—a master motivator both in the classroom and on the basketball court.

   Money is important, but often it isn't the primary motivator when a candidate accepts a job offer.

Other Word Forms

• demotivator noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of motivator¹

motivat(e) ( def. ) + -or ² ( def. )

Example Sentences

It also found enabling employment and supporting child development were the two key motivators for parents and carers.

From BBC

That is surely a powerful motivator for half of his team and potentially a Bradley masterstroke.

From BBC

Attitudes about gender roles or sexualities are often not the primary motivator in domestic violent extremism.

From Salon

"I'm trying to do my best to let everyone in my family happy. Since my father passed away, Usain's my motivator."

From BBC

I just knew that this guy was a motivator.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• instigator 
• mover