motive Definition

motive
noun

1. A reason for, or underlying cause of, action of a certain kind.

Thesaurus: reason, cause, purpose, design, desire, impulse, intent.
2. See motif 2.

adj

1. Causing motion.

Example: motive power
2. Stimulating action.

Example: motive force

Etymology: 14c: French, from Latin movere to move.