English · Word Candidate

incentive

/ɪnˈsɛntɪv/

Proposed by a contributor, not yet supported by evidence.

Also seen as: incentives

Sense 1

Meaning · English

Something that motivates, rouses, or encourages.

Noun

I have no incentive to do housework right now.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Meaning · English

A bonus or reward, often monetary, to work harder.

Noun

Management offered the sales team a $500 incentive for each car sold.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Meaning · English

Inciting; encouraging or moving; rousing to action; stimulating.

Adjective

Competency is of all other proportions the most incentive to industry.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Meaning · English

Serving to kindle or set on fire.

Adjective

Part incentive reed / Provide, pernicious with one touch of fire.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

What does “incentive” mean?

Something that motivates, rouses, or encourages.

Is “incentive” formal or informal?

No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.