move definition

1. To cause to change place or posture in any manner; to set in motion; to carry, convey, draw, or push from one place to another; to impel; to stir; as, the wind moves a vessel; the horse moves a carriage.

2. To transfer (a piece or man) from one space or position to another, according to the rules of the game; as, to move a king.

3. To excite to action by the presentation of motives; to rouse by representation, persuasion, or appeal; to influence. "Minds desirous of revenge were not moved with gold." (Knolles) "No female arts his mind could move." (Dryden)

4. To arouse the feelings or passions of; especially, to excite to tenderness or compassion; to touch pathetically; to excite, as an emotion. "When he saw the multitudes, he was moved with compassion on them." (Matt. Ix. 36) "[The use of images] in orations and poetry is to move pity or terror." (Felton)

5. To propose; to recommend; specifically, to propose formally for consideration and determination, in a deliberative assembly; to submit, as a resolution to be adopted; as, to move to adjourn. "Let me but move one question to your daughter." (Shak) "They are to be blamed alike who move and who decline war upon particular respects." (Hayward)

Synonyms: To stir, agitate, trouble, affect, persuade, influence, actuate, impel, rouse, prompt, instigate, incite, induce, incline, propose, offer.

Origin: OE. Moven, OF. Moveir, F. Mouvoir, L. Movere; cf. Gr. To change, exchange, go in or out, quit, Skr. Miv, p.p. Muta, to move, push. Cf. Emotion, Mew to molt, Mob, Mutable, Mutiny.