noun An idea or communication that makes one want to act, especially from spiritual sources; a divine prompting. .mw-parser-output .defdate{font-size:smaller}
noun An incentive to act in a particular way; a reason or emotion that makes one want to do something; anything that prompts a choice of action.
noun Something which causes someone to want to commit a crime; a reason for criminal behaviour.
What would his motive be for burning down the cottage?
noun A limb or other bodily organ that can move.
noun Alternative form of motif.
If you listen carefully, you can hear the flutes mimicking the cello motive.
noun A party, gathering, or get-together.
noun One's plans for the day or night.
What's the motive for tonight, lads?
verb To prompt or incite by a motive or motives; to move.