Words / A2

MOHT-uh/ˈməʊtə/

A motor is an engine that makes a machine move: an electric motor, the motor failed, motor oil. Engine is a close cousin, especially in cars. Motorway is a fast road — related but a different word. Motto is a slogan. Do not write motor when you mean motto, or motor vs metre.

Meaning

An engine that makes a machine or vehicle move.

Examples

• “The lift motor was too noisy, so we used the stairs.”
• “The washing-machine motor made a loud noise.”
• “Switch off the motor before you open the bonnet.”

Good to know

an electric motor / the motor failed. Cousin: engine. Mix-up: motto.

Near in meaning

engine

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