INCEN'TIVE, adjective [Low Latin incentivus, from incendo, to burn.]

Inciting; encouraging or moving.

Competency is the most incentive to industry.

INCEN'TIVE, noun [Low Latin incentivum.]

1. That which kindles or inflames; used now in a figurative sense only.

2. That which moves the mind or operates on the passions; that which incites or has a tendency to incite to determination or action; that which prompts to good or ill; motive; spur. The love of money, and the desire of promotion, are two most powerful incentives to action.