mainspring

Cause is a synonym of mainspring.

As a verb cause

is .

As a noun mainspring is

the principal spring of a clockwork mechanism, that drives it by uncoiling.

Mainspring is a related term of incitement.

As nouns the difference between mainspring and incitement

is that mainspring is the principal spring of a clockwork mechanism, that drives it by uncoiling while incitement is a call to act; encouragement to act, often in an illegal fashion.

Mainspring is a related term of suit.

As nouns the difference between mainspring and suit

is that mainspring is the principal spring of a clockwork mechanism, that drives it by uncoiling while suit is a set of clothes to be worn together, now especially a man's matching jacket and trousers (also business suit or lounge suit), or a similar outfit for a woman.

As a verb suit is

to make proper or suitable; to adapt or fit.

As nouns the difference between wellspring and mainspring

is that wellspring is the source of water for a stream, spring or well; a fountainhead; a wellhead while mainspring is the principal spring of a clockwork mechanism, that drives it by uncoiling.

As nouns the difference between keystone and mainspring

is that keystone is (architecture) the top stone of an arch while mainspring is the principal spring of a clockwork mechanism, that drives it by uncoiling.

As nouns the difference between mainspring and anchor

is that mainspring is the principal spring of a clockwork mechanism, that drives it by uncoiling while anchor is a tool used to moor a vessel to the bottom of a sea or river to resist movement.

As a verb anchor is

to hold an object, especially a ship or a boat to a fixed point.

As nouns the difference between mainstay and mainspring

is that mainstay is a chief support while mainspring is the principal spring of a clockwork mechanism, that drives it by uncoiling.

Mainspring is a related term of purpose.

As nouns the difference between mainspring and purpose

is that mainspring is the principal spring of a clockwork mechanism, that drives it by uncoiling while purpose is an object to be reached; a target; an aim; a goal.

As a verb purpose is

have set as one's purpose; resolve to accomplish; intend; plan.

As nouns the difference between mainspring and action

is that mainspring is the principal spring of a clockwork mechanism, that drives it by uncoiling while action is something done so as to accomplish a purpose.

As an interjection action is

demanding or signifying the start of something, usually an act or scene of a theatric performance.

As a verb action is

to act on a request etc, in order to put it into effect.

Mainspring is a related term of object.

As nouns the difference between mainspring and object

is that mainspring is the principal spring of a clockwork mechanism, that drives it by uncoiling while object is a thing that has physical existence.

As a verb object is

to disagree with something or someone; especially in a court of law, to raise an objection.