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.

That idea continues to inspire her art, even after many years.

From Los Angeles Times • May 18, 2026

Lindstrom’s work aimed to inspire empathy and humanize those suffering in the margins of society, but it also catalyzed policy change.

From Los Angeles Times • May 16, 2026

Researchers believe the discovery could eventually inspire practical engineering solutions aimed at reducing methane pollution.

From Science Daily • May 10, 2026

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

From BBC • May 8, 2026

I wonder what Auntie An-mei did to inspire a lifelong stream of criticism from my mother.

From "The Joy Luck Club" by Amy Tan

Vocabulary lists containing inspire

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

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