/ Dictionary / Index M motivation research: Meaning and Definition of Find definitions for: motiva'tion research" Pronunciation: [key] the application of the knowledge and techniques of the social sciences, esp. psychology and sociology, to understanding consumer attitudes and behavior: used as a guide in advertising and marketing. Random House Unabridged Dictionary, Copyright © 1997, by Random House, Inc., on Infoplease. motivation motive Related Content Daily Word Quiz: vertigo Analogy of the Day: Today’s Analogy Spelling Bee: Today’s Spelling Bee Frequently Misspelled Words Frequently Mispronounced Words Easily Confused Words Writing & Language