In etymology and semantics, we call a word (lexeme) motivated (motivé, after Saussure), if we can identify a reason, or reasons, why something is named in any particular way. In many cases, this motivation lies within the properties of the denotate, e.g. a mixer or blender is called such because it is used for mixing or blending, a doorbell is called such because it is at or near a door whereas a church/temple bell is at or near a church/temple, etc. In other cases, the motivation is more indirect, e.g. when we compare things with others. The bird shoebill is called such because its beak's shape is thought to resemble a shoe.
Motivation explains why a denotate is named the way it is.
Such motivations often follow certain principles and show recurring motives across lexical fields and languages.
Motives (or: Motifs) are recurring patterns that are employed to create words. Such motives share some aspects of their meaning. Motives thus
Motives explain after wich properties denotates are named, i.e. how a denotate is named the way it is.
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