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.

He told our reporter he had "election fever" and hoped to inspire young people to get involved in politics.

From BBC • May 8, 2026

"Our goal is to break those negative stereotypes and inspire our visitors to appreciate, respect, and help protect these magnificent birds."

From BBC • May 8, 2026

Did Euripides mean this last, bizarre twist to inspire hope, or despair?

From The Wall Street Journal • May 6, 2026

In that way, she hopes to inspire the next generation of drag kings to keep dancing through hard times.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 30, 2026

There are many creative ways to use these inexpensive instruments to help and inspire you, and which will fire up a child’s imagination.

From "Music and the Child" by Natalie Sarrazin

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

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