Definitions

1. noun

a reason or cause for doing or feeling something

“Her motive for quitting the job was to pursue her passion.”

2. verb

to give a reason for or explain the cause of something

“The detective tried to motive the murder by questioning the suspect.”

3. verb

to provide a reason or explanation for someone or something to do something

“The coach motivated the team to work harder.”

4. noun

a hidden or secret reason for doing something

“He had a motive for accepting the offer, but it wasn’t what he said.”