Main Entry: in·cen·tive

Pronunciation: \in-ˈsen-tiv\

Function: noun

Etymology: Middle English, from Late Latin incentivum, from neuter of incentivus stimulating, from Latin, setting the tune, from incentus, past participle of incinere to play (a tune), from in- + canere to sing — more at chant

Date: 15th century

: something that incites or has a tendency to incite to determination or action

synonyms see motive

— incentive adjective