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

While he did inspire Liverpool to a remarkable Champions League victory in 2005, Gerrard never won the league, but no-one would question his status as a Premier League great.

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

I want to meet people who inspire me.

From "Starfish" by Akemi Dawn Bowman

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

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