stimulate

[stim-yuh-leyt] / ˈstɪm yəˌleɪt /

VERB

excite, provoke

Synonyms

STRONGEST

arouse encourage inspire prompt quicken spark spur trigger vitalize

STRONG

activate animate commove dynamize elate energize enliven exhilarate fan fire foment foster galvanize goad grab hook impel incite inflame innervate instigate jazz motivate move perk pique prod rouse send spirit support urge vivify whet

WEAK

build a fire under fire up get one going get one started innerve juice key up set up steam up stir up turn on wake up work up

Antonyms

STRONGEST

block discourage dissuade halt stop

STRONG

bore dampen delay depress deter dishearten dull let go neglect release tire

WEAK

calm

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.

She underwent fertility treatment to try to stimulate her ovaries to produce as many eggs as possible.

From BBC • Mar. 31, 2026

Starting in 2008, the Fed launched a series of emergency bond-buying programs, first to stabilize markets during the financial crisis, and later to stimulate the economy when cutting short-term rates to near zero wasn’t enough.

From Barron's • Mar. 26, 2026

All of which would stimulate demand for, yes, bonds.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 17, 2026

In “Undertone,” all of the horror tropes are window dressing — elements to stimulate the eye while Tuason plays with the ear.

From Salon • Mar. 15, 2026

They were giving her camphor and ammonia to stimulate her and to stop her vomiting.

From "Charles and Emma: The Darwins' Leap of Faith" by Deborah Heiligman

stimulate

Example Sentences

Related Words