motivate

Universal Words verb 1 [VN] [oftenpassive] to be the reason why sb does sth or behaves in a particular way: He is motivated entirely by self-interest. 2 to make sb want to do sth, especially sth that involves hard work and effort: [VN] She's very good at motivating her students. * [VNtoinf] The plan is designed to motivate employees to work more efficiently. motivated adjective: a racially motivated attack * a highly motivated student (= one who is very interested and works hard) motivation noun [C,U]: What is the motivation behind this sudden change? * Most people said that pay was their main motivation for working. * He's intelligent enough but he lacks motivation. motivational adjective (formal): an important motivational factor motivator noun: Desire for status can be a powerful motivator.