machine that converts other forms of energy into mechanical energy and so imparts motion
"The electric motor hummed quietly as it converted stored electricity into the spinning force needed to drive the conveyor belt."
a nonspecific agent that imparts motion
"happiness is the aim of all men and the motor of all action"
A machine or device that converts other energy forms into mechanical energy, or imparts motion.
"The electric motor hummed to life and began turning the factory's conveyor belt."
In plain English: A motor is a machine that turns energy into motion to make things move.
"The old car needs a new motor to start again."
Usage: Use "motor" to refer specifically to the engine or mechanism inside a vehicle that generates power and movement, such as in a car motor. Do not use it interchangeably with the entire vehicle itself, which is simply called a car or truck.
To make a journey by motor vehicle; to drive.
"She decided to motor down to the coast for the weekend instead of taking the train."
In plain English: To motor means to move quickly and smoothly, often with a humming sound.
"The boat will not move unless someone starts the motor."
Usage: Use "motor" as a verb to mean driving a car or other motorized vehicle, often implying a long-distance trip rather than simple parking maneuvers. While grammatically correct in this sense, it sounds formal and is rarely used in casual conversation compared to simply saying "drive."
Relating to the ability to move.
"The new exercise bike helped improve his motor skills so he could finally ride a real bicycle without falling over."
"The motor boat sped across the lake."
Usage: Use motor only as an adjective when describing something that operates using an engine or mechanical power, such as a motor vehicle or motor oil. Do not use it to describe biological movement or general mobility; instead, use words like mobile, movable, or motile for those contexts.
The word motor comes from the Latin mōtor, meaning "that which moves something," and entered English via Middle English as a term for a controller or prime mover. It is derived directly from the verb mōtō, which means to set in motion.