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Definition of demotivate

demotivate

/diːˈmoʊ.tɪ.veɪt/
de · mo · ti · vate
Adjective:demotivating
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Past Simple:demotivated
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Past Participle:demotivated
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Present Participle:demotivating
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demotivate Lexical Profile

demotivate Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To make someone less eager, enthusiastic, or willing to do something, such as their job or studies.

Example

"Unrealistic deadlines and a lack of recognition can quickly demotivate even the most dedicated employees."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
View all antonyms for demotivate

• Nearby Words

demos
demote
demotion
demotivate
demotivation
demountable
demur

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in the mid-20th century by adding the privative prefix 'de-' to 'motivate', which ultimately derives from the Medieval Latin 'motivus' (moving, impelling), from the Latin 'movere' (to move).

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Demotivate. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/demotivate
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