motive power

noun

1. any power used to impart motion; any source of mechanical energy.
2. Railroads. locomotives or other vehicles that supply tractive power.

motive power

noun

1. any source of energy used to produce motion
2. the means of supplying power to an engine, vehicle, etc
3. any driving force

Word History and Origins

Origin of motive power¹

First recorded in 1615–25

Example Sentences

If a kite would give motive power to a man skating, why not use a more up-to-date air-power scheme on the ice?

From Project Gutenberg

Tug service for sailing ships or vessels without motive power is at the rate of $15 per hour.

From Project Gutenberg

I'll give you six months in which to make good as a model superintendent of motive power.

From Project Gutenberg

He saw that the motive power which would carry itself forward and drag repeal with it, was in the land.

From Project Gutenberg

The motive power was a tackle attached to trees, which was worked by men, from fourteen to twenty of whom were employed upon it.

From Project Gutenberg