inspire

[in-spahyuhr] / ɪnˈspaɪər /

VERB

encourage, stimulate

Synonyms

STRONGEST

affect animate arouse cause embolden excite galvanize get hearten impress influence instill motivate produce provoke spark spur stir sway touch trigger

STRONG

carry commove elate endue enkindle enliven exalt exhilarate imbue infect inflame inform infuse inspirit invigorate occasion quicken reassure strike urge

WEAK

be responsible for fire up give impetus give one an idea give rise to set up start off work up

Antonyms

STRONGEST

bore calm deaden depress discourage dissuade halt leave alone lull please quiet stop

STRONG

dishearten dull enervate lose

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

But even if you never attended any Asian film festivals or other events, you have likely benefited from the larger market exposure the group helped to inspire.

From Salon • May 31, 2026

She also hopes this new work will inspire future generations of artists, and plans to bring her ArtCenter students to see the installation once it’s open.

From Los Angeles Times • May 27, 2026

There was little Richardson could say to inspire a comeback, with Raducanu committing 42 unforced errors throughout the match, and she made a hasty retreat off court after Sierra secured victory.

From BBC • May 24, 2026

American actress Tina Fey hopes the latest installment of Netflix comedy "The Four Seasons" will inspire viewers to pick up the phone and check in with old friends.

From Barron's • May 20, 2026

I just didn’t think that message would inspire Red to respond.

From "Rump: The (Fairly) True Story of Rumpelstilskin" by Liesl Shurtliff

Vocabulary lists containing inspire

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Michelle Obama's final address as First Lady (2017)

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