motivation-n; 3 Senses

Sense Number 1: something that is an incentive, a reason

Commentary: MOTIVATION[+relation][+rationale][+incentive]
NOTE: implies 'X BE motivation'

Examples:
Escape can be a strong motivation for travel.
The protagonist's motivation for killing his brother is far fetched in that novel.
The motivation for this bill is to streamline and standardize accounting practices.

Mappings:
WordNet 3.0 Sense Numbers: 1

Sense Number 2: mental state of having incentive, being driven

Commentary: MOTIVATION[+state][+mental][+driven][+goal]
NOTE: implies 'X has/does not have motivation'

Examples:
The soldiers' motivation remains high despite the setbacks.
They are seeking job candidates with strong motivation to work independently.
Mary's cat showed little motivation to eat or groom itself.

Mappings:
WordNet 3.0 Sense Numbers: 2

Sense Number 3: the act of providing incentive to someone

Commentary: MOTIVATION[+action][+provide][+incentive]
NOTE: implies an actor/agent driving or inspiring another
NOTE: often occurs in the form 'X's motivation of Y'

Examples:
The coach's motivation of the team is an important part of their winning strategy.
Her efforts to provide motivation to the students has paid off.
The company's motivation of its sales staff centers on annual bonuses.
Without her mother's motivation, Sally would not have entered the contest.

Mappings:
WordNet 3.0 Sense Numbers: 3