What does motor mean?
A motor is a machine that converts energy into mechanical movement. The term is most commonly associated with an electric motor, but it can also refer more broadly to an engine or, informally, to a motor vehicle. Motors are essential in transportation, manufacturing, household appliances, industrial machinery, and digital devices such as cameras and computer drives. The word can also be used figuratively: a person described as the motor of an organization is the person who supplies energy and drives its work. In British English, “motor” remains a familiar informal word for a car or motorcycle, though it is less formal than “car.” In technical writing, the precise term depends on the power source and mechanism, so an electric motor, internal-combustion engine, and turbine should not be treated as interchangeable.
A machine or engine that converts energy into mechanical motion, especially an electric motor.
"A small motor controls the camera’s focusing mechanism."
Technically, a motor generally converts energy into mechanical power, whereas an engine often refers to a machine powered by combustion.
To travel by motor vehicle, especially by car.
"We motored through the countryside on a warm afternoon."
This is somewhat old-fashioned and is much more common in British English than in American English.
Relating to a motor, engine, or motorized vehicle; using motorized power.
"The factory expanded its motor production line."
Usually attributive and technical or commercial in usage, as in “motor industry,” “motor vehicle,” and “motor mechanics.”
The standard plural of the noun is “motors.”
"The repair shop specializes in electric motors."
From “mover” to the machine that moves almost everything modern: the word motor has powered transport, industry, and countless everyday devices.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does motor come from?
“Motor” entered English in the early 19th century from the Latin motor, meaning “a mover” or “that which moves.” The Latin word is derived from the same root as movēre, “to move,” which also underlies English words such as motion, motive, and emotion. The word was initially associated with machines and devices that produced motion, while its use for a motor vehicle developed in the 20th century.
Related word forms
How motor is actually used
In British English, “motor” is especially common as an informal term for a motor vehicle. In technical contexts, it usually refers to a machine that converts electrical energy into mechanical motion; “engine” is the more usual term for a machine powered by combustion.
Easily confused with motor
A motor usually refers specifically to a machine that converts energy into motion, while an engine is a broader term for a machine that produces power, especially one that burns fuel.
A motor generates mechanical motion, whereas a rotor is a rotating component within a machine.