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motivated

/ˈmoʊ.tɪ.veɪ.tɪd/ · mo·ti·vated
adjective
  1. Having a motive or reason; possessing a drive or purpose. He was motivated to finish the project before the deadline.
  2. Having been given a reason or incentive to act; inspired. She was motivated by the promise of a bonus.
verb
  1. To give someone a reason or incentive to do something; to inspire or encourage. The coach motivated the team to win the championship.
Did you know? The word "motivated" entered English in the 17th century, and its root *motus* means "movement," reflecting the idea that motivation is the movement of the mind toward action.
Written by Lexi Wordsworth, Dictionary Editor 1 lookups Added Aug 13, 2026