Motor
/ˈmoʊ.tɚ/noun
A machine or device that produces motion or power for a vehicle or mechanism.
Did you know?The term 'motor' derives from a Latin word meaning 'to move', linking it to ancient understandings of energy and motion as almost mystical forces.
Etymological Timeline
Latin
Latin
movere
“to move, stir, or shake.”
Old French
Old French
motor
“one who moves or causes to move.”
Middle English
Middle English
motor
“a term for an agent that causes motion.”
19th Century
English
motor
“specifically applied to machines that produce motion.”
Modern English
English
motor
“commonly refers to engines and machines that facilitate movement.”