driven
UK: ˈdrɪv(ə)n | US: ˈdrɪvən
adj. 1. highly motivated or determined to achieve a goal
adj. 2. operated or controlled by a specified force or mechanism (e.g., "snow-driven")
v. (past participle of drive) 3. having been compelled or directed to act
The word driven originates from Old English drīfan ("to propel, urge forward"), derived from Proto-Germanic dreibaną. The root drive retains its core meaning of forceful motion or compulsion, while the suffix -en marks it as a past participle. Over time, driven evolved metaphorically to describe intense motivation (e.g., "goal-driven"), reflecting the idea of being "pushed" toward an objective. The mechanical sense (e.g., "wind-driven") emerged later, aligning with the root’s original physical connotation.
She is a driven entrepreneur who works tirelessly.
The debris was driven ashore by the storm.
His passion for justice drove him to become a lawyer.
The turbine is driven by steam power.
Fear-driven decisions often lead to regret.