Definition

To encourage someone to do something by offering them a reward or benefit.

Example

The company decided to incent its employees with bonuses for meeting their targets.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you hear how they plan to incent more businesses to go green?

Yeah, I read something about tax breaks for those companies.

It seems like a smart move to incent sustainable practices.

Definitely! It could make a big difference for the environment.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Incent is derived from the Latin root 'incentivus' (meaning stimulating or encouraging) and is related to 'incendere' (meaning to set on fire). The word 'incent' refers to something that stimulates or encourages action.

Memory Tip

Think of something that 'stimulates' or 'encourages' action — that's what 'incent' means.

Visually Confused Words