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prime mover

 - 4 dictionary results

prime mover

–noun
1. Mechanics.
a. the initial agent, as wind or electricity, that puts a machine in motion.
b. 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.

Origin:
1935–40
Dictionary.com Unabridged
Based on the Random House Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2009.
Cite This Source Link To prime mover
prime mover  
n.  
    1. One regarded as the initial source of energy directed toward a goal: Patriotism was the prime mover of the revolution.

    2. The initial force, such as electricity, wind, or gravity, that engages or moves a machine.

    3. A machine or mechanism that converts natural energy into work. Also called primum mobile.

  1. Any of various heavy-duty trucks or tractors.

  2. Philosophy In Aristotelian philosophy, the self-moved being that causes all motion.

The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition
Copyright © 2009 by Houghton Mifflin Company.
Published by Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved.
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Medical Dictionary

Main Entry: prime mover
Pronunciation: 'prIm-'mü-v&r
Function: noun
: AGONIST1
Merriam-Webster's Medical Dictionary, © 2002 Merriam-Webster, Inc.
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Idioms & Phrases

prime mover

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]

The American Heritage® Dictionary of Idioms by Christine Ammer.
Copyright © 1997. Published by Houghton Mifflin.
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