inducement

noun in·duce·ment \in-ˈdüs-mənt, -ˈdyüs-\

: something that gives you a reason for doing something and makes you want to do it

Full Definition of INDUCEMENT

: a motive or consideration that leads one to action or to additional or more effective actions

: the act or process of inducing

: matter presented by way of introduction or background to explain the principal allegations of a legal cause, plea, or defense

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First Known Use of INDUCEMENT

1594

Related to INDUCEMENT

Synonyms: conversion, convincing, persuasion, inducing, persuading, suasion

Synonym Discussion of INDUCEMENT

motive, impulse, incentive, inducement, spur, goad mean a stimulus to action. motive implies an emotion or desire operating on the will and causing it to act <a motive for the crime>. impulse suggests a driving power arising from personal temperament or constitution <buying on impulse>. incentive applies to an external influence (as an expected reward) inciting to action <a bonus was offered as an incentive>. inducement suggests a motive prompted by the deliberate enticements or allurements of another <offered a watch as an inducement to subscribe>. spur applies to a motive that stimulates the faculties or increases energy or ardor <fear was a spur to action>. goad suggests a motive that keeps one going against one's will or desire <thought insecurity a goad to worker efficiency>.

INDUCEMENT Defined for Kids