impetusEnglishOxford American Thesaurusimpetus noun 1 the flywheel lost all its impetus: momentum, propulsion, impulsion, impelling force, motive force, driving force, drive, thrust, continuing motion; energy, force, power, push, steam, strength. 2 new products were introduced to give the sales force fresh impetus: motivation, stimulus, incitement, incentive, inducement, inspiration, encouragement, boost; urging, pressing, goading, spurring, prodding; informal a shot in the arm.