Motive — synonyms, definition

1. motive (a)

acting active alive dynamic living mobile operative

2. motive (Noun)

account aim allegation antecedent appetite base basis cause composition consideration craving design desire device drive effort end energy excuse factor • • •

motive (Noun) — The psychological feature that arouses an organism to action toward a desired goal; the reason for the action; that which gives purpose and direction to behaviour. ex. "he acted with the best of motives"

motive (Noun) — A theme that is repeated or elaborated in a piece of music.

motive (Noun) — A design or figure that consists of recurring shapes or colours, as in architecture or decoration.

design figure idea melodic theme musical theme pattern psychological feature theme ethical motive ethics impulse irrational motive life mental energy morality morals obbligato obligato psychic energy rational motive urge

3. motive (Adjective)

motivating motivative motor

motive (Adjective) — Causing or able to cause motion. ex. "a motive force" ex. "motive power"

motive (Adjective) — Impelling to action. ex. "motive pleas"