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Definition of incentive

incentive

/ɪnˈsɛn.tɪv/
in · cen · tive
Adverb:incentively
•
Plural:incentives
•
Adjective:incentive
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incentive Lexical Profile

incentive Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

Something that motivates or encourages a person to do something or work harder.

Example

"There is little incentive for people to leave their cars at home when public transport remains so expensive."

2

A payment, concession, or reward offered to stimulate greater output, investment, or customer participation.

Example

"The government offers generous tax incentives to attract renewable energy companies to the region."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• adjective

1

Serving to motivate, encourage, or incite someone to take action or work harder.

Example

"The company introduced a new incentive bonus scheme to boost quarterly sales."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for incentive
Antonyms
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• Rhymes for incentive

• Nearby Words

incense cedar
incensed
incent
incentive
incentivize
inception
incertitude

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the 15th century from Late Latin incentivus ('setting the tune'), from Latin incinere ('to strike up or play an instrument'), combining in- ('into') and canere ('to sing').

Cite this Entry

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