motivator

American  

[moh-tuh-vey-ter] / ˈmoʊ təˌveɪ tər /

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.

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Other Word Forms

• demotivator
  noun

Etymology

Origin of motivator

motivat(e) ( def. ) + -or ² ( def. )

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

motivator

Pocketbook issues have always been the single strongest motivator for the electorate.

From Salon ● Aug. 13, 2026

And representatives for both companies said getting children off their parents’ plans wasn’t a motivator for the new offerings.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 15, 2026

"I always say that my mum was my biggest motivator," said Hill, speaking ahead of her strawweight bout against China's Xiong Jingnan.

From Barron's ● May 29, 2026

But, for me, he's been way out of his depth as a motivator and tactical coach and lacked the aura to lead at such a dysfunctional club.

From BBC ● May 3, 2026

Hope in the shadow of fear is the world’s most powerful motivator.

From "Scythe" by Neal Shusterman

Related Words

• instigator
• mover