motivation

noun

mo·​ti·​va·​tion ˌmō-tə-ˈvā-shən How to pronounce motivation (audio)
1
a
: the act or process of motivating
Some students need motivation to help them through school.
b
: the condition of being motivated
employees who lack motivation
2
: a motivating force, stimulus, or influence : incentive, drive
the Old Testament heroes added religious motivation to the waging of warRichard Humble
The fear of failure was the motivation for his achievements.
motivational adjective
motivationally adverb

Examples of motivation in a Sentence

Some students need motivation to help them through school. Many people have questioned her motivations in choosing to run for office at this time.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
One of the main motivations for the group of firefighters during their recovery missions was to locate the missing Camp Mystic girls during their six days along the Guadalupe, Herrera said. Graham Hurley, CNN Money, 27 July 2025 Whether on screen or behind the scenes, Whitley’s motivation remains rooted in her purpose: bringing joy to others. Okla Jones, Essence, 26 July 2025 Each situation is unique, but common motivations include: Seeking a faster or more reliable connection Looking for lower monthly costs or promotional deals Wanting better customer service Needing service at a new address due to a move Switching providers can help improve your home Wi-Fi experience. Roxanne Downer, USA Today, 26 July 2025 Amazon had another source of motivation, however, and that came from sustainability-minded shareholders. Jeff Young, MSNBC Newsweek, 24 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for motivation

Word History

First Known Use

1873, in the meaning defined at sense 1b

Time Traveler
The first known use of motivation was in 1873

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Cite this Entry

“Motivation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/motivation. Accessed 31 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

motivation

noun
mo·​ti·​va·​tion ˌmōt-ə-ˈvā-shən How to pronounce motivation (audio)
1
a
: the act or process of motivating
b
: the condition of being motivated
2
: a motivating force or influence : incentive

Medical Definition

motivation

noun
mo·​ti·​va·​tion ˌmōt-ə-ˈvā-shən How to pronounce motivation (audio)
1
a
: the act or process of motivating
b
: the condition of being motivated
2
: a motivating force, stimulus, or influence (as a drive or incentive)
lacks the motivation to lose weight
motivational adjective
motivationally adverb

More from Merriam-Webster on motivation

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