prime mover

noun

1. Mechanics.
   1. the initial agent, as wind or electricity, that puts a machine in motion.
   2. a machine, as a water wheel or steam engine, that receives and modifies energy as supplied by some natural source.
2. means of towing a cannon, as an animal, truck, or tractor.
3. Also called unmoved mover. Aristotelianism. that which is the first cause of all movement and does not itself move.
4. a person or thing that initiates or gives power and cohesion to something, as an idea, endeavor, or organization.

prime mover

¹

noun

1. the original or primary force behind an idea, enterprise, etc
2. 1. the source of power, such as fuel, wind, electricity, etc, for a machine
   2. the means of extracting power from such a source, such as a steam engine, electric motor, etc
3. (in the philosophy of Aristotle) that which is the cause of all movement

Prime Mover

²

noun

1. the Prime Mover
   philosophy God, esp when considered as a first cause

Word History and Origins

Origin of prime mover¹

First recorded in 1935–40

Idioms and Phrases

The initial source of energy directed toward a goal, someone or something that sets others in motion. For example, Jean was the prime mover in getting us more laboratory space , or Patriotism was the prime mover of the revolution . [Late 1600s]

Example Sentences

One of the prime movers behind the scientists’ letter, leading expert Prof Tina Barsby, described the minister’s response as a “encouraging” but said that his promise of clarity “soon” had to mean really soon.

From BBC

Prof Andrews was among the prime movers of the New York Declaration on Animal Consciousness signed earlier this year, which has so far been signed by 286 researchers.

From BBC

They need to be replaced by smaller modern pods that can be more easily transported by “prime mover” vehicles to remote wildfire locations across the countryside.

From BBC

Jinkins, who seems to have been the prime mover, has repeatedly said that she supports the privilege.

From Seattle Times

Was the Society a prime mover, or a bit player?

From Seattle Times

Related Words

• instigator
• motivator
• mover