Found 2 items, similar to motive power.
English → English (WordNet) Definition: motive power motive power n : the power or ability to move [syn: locomotion, motivity]
English → English (gcide) Definition: Motive power Motive \Mo"tive\, a. Causing motion; having power to move, or tending to move; as, a motive argument; motive power. “Motive faculty.” --Bp. Wilkins. [1913 Webster] Motive power (Mach.), a natural agent, as water, steam, wind, electricity, etc., used to impart motion to machinery; a motor; a mover. [1913 Webster]