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to incite or move to action; impel; motivate:
actuated by selfish motives.
to put into action; start a process; turn on:
to actuate a machine.
Historical Examples

This is designed for actuating different figures through the play of the steam and of the several way cocks that I have mentioned.
Magic, Stage Illusions and Scientific Diversions Including Trick Photography Albert A. Hopkins

On our side a solemn decision seems to be actuating the masses.
Three Years in the Federal Cavalry Willard Glazier

The actuating motive is not always kindness and humanity, but a desire to get out of danger.
Impressions of a War Correspondent George Lynch

A cam in which the actuating surface is on its side or sides.
Modern Machine-Shop Practice, Volumes I and II Joshua Rose

The apparatus is designed for the production of light and for actuating electric motors, large induction bobbins, etc.
Scientific American Supplement, No. 443, June 28, 1884 Various

A cam in which the actuating surface is in the form of a groove.
Modern Machine-Shop Practice, Volumes I and II Joshua Rose

But the actuating principle of the psychic investigators had changed.
The Room with the Tassels Carolyn Wells

Clearance must be left between the valve stems and actuating means.
Aviation Engines Victor Wilfred Pag

In Fig. 674 a different method of actuating the belt shipper is illustrated.
Modern Machine-Shop Practice, Volumes I and II Joshua Rose

“One never can tell what is actuating people,” said Mr. Beauclerk.
The Way We Live Now Anthony Trollope

verb (transitive)
to put into action or mechanical motion
to motivate or incite into action: actuated by unworthy desires
v.

1590s, from Medieval Latin actuatus, past participle of actuare, from Latin actus (see act (n.)). Related: Actuated; actuating.