something that causes a person to act in a certain way, do a certain thing, etc.; incentive.

the goal or object of a person's actions

Her motive was revenge.

(in art, literature, and music) a motif.

causing, or tending to cause, motion.

pertaining to motion.

prompting to action.

constituting a motive or motives.

to motivate.

noun

deterrent , discouragement , hindrance

noun

aim , antecedent , basis , cause , consideration , design , determinant , drive , emotion , end , feeling , grounds , idea , impulse , incentive , incitement , inducement , influence , inspiration , intent , intention , mainspring , motivation , object , occasion , passion , rationale , root , spring , spur , stimulus , thinking , ground , reason , device , motif , pattern , fillip , impetus , intendment , provocation , purpose , sake