Motive Power
/ˈmoʊ.tɪv ˌpaʊər/noun
A force or energy source that produces motion, especially in machines, vehicles, or engines.
Did you know?In 19th-century engineering, “motive power” commonly referred to steam, water, wind, or animal force before becoming strongly associated with engines and locomotives.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*mewə-
“To move, push away, or change position”
Latin
Latin
movēre
“To move or set in motion”
Late Latin
Latin
mōtīvus
“Causing movement; giving motion”
13th Century
Middle English
motif
“A reason for action or movement”
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*poti-
“Powerful; master or lord”
Old French
Old French
poeir
“To be able; to have power”
17th Century
English
motive power
“Force used to produce mechanical motion”