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motor definition

mo·tor (mōtər)

noun

  1. anything that produces or imparts motion
  2. an engine; esp., an internal-combustion engine for propelling a vehicle
  3. motor vehicle
  4. Elec. a machine for converting electric energy into mechanical energy

Etymology: L, a mover < motus, pp. of movere, move

adjective

  1. producing or imparting motion
  2. of, having to do with, or powered by a motor or motors motor oil, motor parts, a motor bicycle
  3. of, by, or for motor vehicles a motor trip
  4. for motorists a motor inn
  5. designating or of a nerve carrying impulses from the central nervous system to a muscle that produces motion
  6. of, manifested by, or involving muscular movements a motor reflex, motor skills

intransitive verb

  1. to ride in a motor vehicle; esp., to travel by automobile
  2. Informal to walk or otherwise proceed at a swift or steady pace

transitive verb

Chiefly Brit. to convey by automobile

Webster's New World College Dictionary Copyright © 2009 by Wiley Publishing, Inc., Cleveland, Ohio.
Used by arrangement with John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

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Motor or Engine?65 years ago

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