motives 1 of 2

noun

Definition of motivesnext
plural of motive
1
as in themes
a major object of interest or concern (as in a discussion or artistic composition) the principal motive of the piece was introduced in the flute section

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in motifs
a unit of decoration that is repeated all over something (as a fabric) decorated with a paisley motive

Synonyms & Similar Words
3
as in reasons
something (as a belief) that serves as the basis for another thing the detective felt that the first suspect didn't have any motive for committing the crime

Synonyms & Similar Words

motives

2 of 2

verb

present tense third-person singular of motive
as in motivates

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Examples Sentences

Recent Examples of Synonyms for motives
  1. themes
  2. motifs
  3. motivates
  4. topics
  5. inspires
  6. animates
  7. energizes
  8. drives
Noun
  • Other projects shone a light on themes that male filmmakers largely avoid.
    Nina-Sophia Miralles, Forbes, 11 Dec. 2024
  • Valhalla is also available in six livery themes inspired by Aston Martin's motorsports heritage.
    Joseph Epstein, Newsweek, 11 Dec. 2024
Definition of themes
Noun
  • In Etsy's gifting trend report, the online marketplace similarly called out mythical motifs for inspiration this year.
    Isabella Milano, Better Homes & Gardens, 10 Dec. 2024
  • Influenced by the Regency era, Rococo is an architectural style boasting intricate curved lines, natural motifs, luxe materials, and pastel shades.
    Isabella Milano, Better Homes & Gardens, 10 Dec. 2024
Definition of motifs
Verb
  • Once your dog is sitting and staying nicely, use whatever motivates it the most, such as treats or toys.
    Liz O'Connell, Newsweek, 10 Dec. 2024
  • Celebrating successes together creates a positive atmosphere, boosts morale, and motivates employees to achieve even more in the future.
    Mark Congdon, Forbes, 4 Dec. 2024
Definition of motivates
Noun
  • Dedicated to the agricultural prowess of Napa Valley, these informational seminars provide insight into a wide range of topics spanning from the history of the Oakville American Viticultural Area to the inner workings of Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, one of the region’s most renowned varietals.
    Jared Ranahan, Forbes, 11 Dec. 2024
  • Atom bank has created a more united workplace where staff feel encouraged to learn, talk openly, and engage with one another on important topics.
    Nadia Edwards-Dashti, Forbes, 11 Dec. 2024
Definition of topics
Verb
  • Here, Mars inspires the desire to express yourself with courage and confidence and take center stage with an open heart.
    Valerie Mesa, People.com, 10 Dec. 2024
  • Similarly, Fox Sports and NBC Sports have highlighted LeBron James as a prime example, noting how his perseverance inspires teammates to rise above challenges and deliver peak performance.
    Jeetendr Sehdev, Forbes, 10 Dec. 2024
Definition of inspires
Verb
  • Tuck deftly animates Czesława and her family, situating their lives within the larger context of Hitler’s effort to eradicate Poland and its culture.
    The New Yorker, The New Yorker, 9 Dec. 2024
  • Microsoft This Xbox chatbot will appear as an AI character that animates when responding, or as a colorful Xbox orb.
    Tom Warren, The Verge, 4 Nov. 2024
Definition of animates
Verb
  • Poppy seeds gently slough off dry, dead skin, while peppermint essential oil energizes the senses.
    Adam Mansuroglu, WWD, 8 Dec. 2024
  • Contesting every race holds MAGA extremism accountable, energizes local Democratic organizing, boosts turnout to help statewide and national wins, and ensures voters always have a choice in our democracy.
    Daniel R. Depetris, Newsweek, 6 Dec. 2024
Definition of energizes
Verb
  • Novartis is a prime example, fostering a culture of curiosity and empowerment that drives both engagement and innovation.
    Dr. Diane Hamilton, Forbes, 11 Dec. 2024
  • Tripp Westbrook, the President and CCO of Firehouse, drives innovation against the norm.
    Tripp Westbrook, Forbes, 11 Dec. 2024
Definition of drives
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Thesaurus Entries Near motives

motived

motives

motiving

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Cite this Entry

“Motives.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/motives. Accessed 22 Dec. 2024.

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More from Merriam-Webster on motives

Nglish: Translation of motives for Spanish Speakers

Britannica English: Translation of motives for Arabic Speakers

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