Motive
/ˈmoʊ.tɪv/noun
A reason for doing something, especially one that is hidden or not immediately obvious.
Did you know?The term 'motive' traces back to the concept of 'movement', linking our intentions to the primal forces of action and desire, almost as if driven by unseen energies.
Etymological Timeline
Latin
Latin
motivus
“That which causes motion; a mover.”
Old French
Old French
motif
“A reason or cause; an underlying pattern or theme.”
Middle English
Middle English
motive
“Pertaining to movement; a reason for action.”
Modern English
Modern English
motive
“A driving force behind actions; often linked to hidden psychological desires.”