A motor is a machine that converts energy into motion. Electric motors run on electricity, turning the power from an outlet or battery into spinning or moving parts. Gas motors (also called engines) burn fuel to create movement. Motors power countless things around you: fans, refrigerators, washing machines, toy cars, power tools, and even the vibration in a phone.

The key difference between a motor and an engine is usually the energy source. Motors typically use electricity, while engines burn fuel like gasoline. However, people often use these words interchangeably, especially when talking about cars (where you'll hear both “motor oil” and “car engine”).

When something is motorized, it means a motor powers it instead of human effort. A motorized scooter moves on its own, while a regular scooter requires you to push with your foot. A motorboat uses a motor to move through water, unlike a sailboat that relies on wind.

As a verb, motor means to move along with steady power. When someone says “Let's motor,” they mean “Let's get moving” or “Let's get started.” If a student is really motoring through their homework, they're working quickly and efficiently, almost like they have their own internal motor driving them forward.