# motivational

/ˌmoʊtəˈveɪʃənəɫ/ (US) · /mˌəʊtɪvˈeɪʃənəl/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/motivational
Updated: 2026-05-06

## Definition

giving someone a reason to work hard or feel excited about achieving a goal. You use this to describe things like speeches or posters that make people feel more positive.

For teachers: providing inspiration or incentive to act; designed to stimulate interest or enthusiasm for a particular task or goal.

## Examples

- She gave a motivational speech to the team.
- The company hired a motivational speaker to help the employees feel more excited about the new project.
- While some find motivational posters inspiring, others argue that true professional drive comes from a supportive environment rather than simple slogans on a wall.

## Usage notes

- Typically used attributively before a noun.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.