mainspring

noun
UK: /ˈmeɪn.sprɪŋ/
US: /ˈmeɪn.sprɪŋ/

  1. The most important reason why something happens or why someone does something.

    1. Curiosity was the mainspring of his constant research.
    2. The desire for a better life was the mainspring of their decision to immigrate, seeking opportunities abroad.

  2. The chief motivating influence.

    1. Ambition is often the mainspring for success.
    2. For many artists, self-expression is the mainspring that fuels their creative output and artistic vision.

  3. The most important part of a clock or other mechanism, which provides the power that makes it work.

    1. The clock stopped because the mainspring was broken.
    2. A delicate mainspring powers the intricate movements within this antique pocket watch, showcasing precision engineering.

Synonyms

incentive source prime mover cause motivation

Frequently Asked Questions

The word "mainspring" in English means: The most important reason why something happens or why someone does something., The chief motivating influence., The most important part of a clock or other mechanism, which provides the power that makes it work..

The phonetic transcription of "mainspring" is /ˈmeɪn.sprɪŋ/ in British English and /ˈmeɪn.sprɪŋ/ in American English. Click the 🔊 button to hear both pronunciations.

Synonyms for "mainspring": incentive, source, prime mover, cause, motivation.

Example usage of "mainspring": "Curiosity was the mainspring of his constant research.". More examples on the page.