motive

noun adjective

Stress: first syllable

Syllables: mo-tive (2)

English Definition

A reason for doing something, especially one that is hidden or not obvious.

Example Sentence

The police are trying to find the motive behind the crime.

US IPA /ˈmoʊ.t̬ɪv/
UK IPA /ˈməʊ.tɪv/