prime mover

prime mover

noun

Definition of PRIME MOVER

1

a : an initial source of motive power (as a windmill, waterwheel, turbine, or internal combustion engine) designed to receive and modify force and motion as supplied by some natural source and apply them to drive machinery b : a powerful tractor or truck usually with all-wheel drive

2

: the self-moved being that is the source of all motion

3

: the original or most effective force in an undertaking or work <education is … a prime mover of cultural and societal change — R. C. Buck>

Examples of PRIME MOVER

1. She was the prime mover behind the town's annual summer festival.

Origin of PRIME MOVER

translation of Medieval Latin primus motor

First Known Use: 1809

Rhymes with PRIME MOVER

earthmover, improver, maneuver, remover, reprover