motive

Definition

An idea or communication that makes one want to act, especially from spiritual sources; a divine prompting.

Etymology

From Middle English motif, from Anglo-Norman motif, Middle French motif, and their source, Late Latin motivum (“motive, moving cause”), neuter of motivus.

Example Sentences

• "there's something in a woman beyond all human delight; a magnetic virtue, a charming quality, an occult and powerful motive."
• "Many of them at first seemed kind to him, but it turned out their motives were not entirely altruistic."
• "“Your job here is to find the good things in your colleagues—the things their state saw—and not focus on the bad.” I said I understand. “And, Joe, never attack another man’s motive, because you don’t know his motive.”"