motivate

Definitions

To provide someone with a motive or reason for acting in a certain way.

To stimulate someone's interest in or enthusiasm for doing something.

Examples

The coach used inspiring words to motivate the team before the championship game.

A desire to provide a better life for his family continues to motivate him every day.

Offering small rewards can be an effective way to motivate students to complete their assignments.

Synonyms

inspire encourage stimulate prompt impel drive incite

Antonyms

discourage dissuade deter hinder impede dishearten demoralize