INCENTIVE

Meaning

Something that motivates, rouses, or encourages.

Etymology

Origin: Latin

From Medieval Latin incentīvus (“that strikes up or sets the tune”), from incinō (“to strike up”), from in- (“in, on”) + canō (“to sing”) + -ive. The formation appears to have been influenced by incendō (“to set on fire”).

Synonyms & Antonyms

NYT Puzzle Appearances

Accepted in 7 recorded puzzles:

• 2025-03-21ECVZTIN
• 2024-12-28VCOIENT
• 2024-12-10NCTFEIV
• 2024-10-20VCTNIDE
• 2023-06-06TCVIENZ
• 2023-03-03VTANECI
• 2023-01-02CETIFNV