Simple Definition of prime mover

from our Learner's Dictionary

prime mover

noun

plural prime movers
: a person or thing that starts something or that has a very powerful influence on something
She was the prime mover behind the town's annual summer festival.

Cite this Entry

“Prime mover.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/prime%20mover. Accessed 23 Jun. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster