instigator

[in-sti-gey-ter] / ˈɪn stɪˌgeɪ tər /

NOUN

troublemaker

Synonyms

STRONGEST

ringleader

STRONG

agitator firebrand hellion incendiary inciter knave meddler mischief-maker nuisance provocateur punk rabble-rouser

WEAK

agent provocateur inflamer sparkplug wise guy

Frequently Asked Questions

What is another word for instigator?

Instigator is most commonly used in a negative way to refer to a person who provokes other people or incites trouble—often by instigating arguments or encouraging dangerous actions. Synonyms include agitator, antagonizer, provocateur, troublemaker, incendiary, and firebrand. Some instigators make elaborate plans to stir up trouble, but others are opportunists who find any opportunity to throw a match on a powder keg. The term agent provocateur is more specific than provocateur. An agent provocateur is a secret agent working to incite people into illegal actions so that they can be arrested.

What is the opposite (antonym) of instigator?

The opposite of instigating is trying to stop trouble, rather than starting it. In the context of an argument or conflict, such a person might be called a peacemaker or peacekeeper. The word troubleshooter can also be used in this way. Mediators try to help parties in a conflict to resolve it.

Is instigator a negative word?

Instigator is almost always used in a negative way in the context of someone starting trouble. It’s possible to be used positively in a way that’s ironic, as in instigator of peace. In neutral contexts involving things causing other things, the neutral word catalyst is a good choice.

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.

Crockett called Greene an “instigator” who can’t stand a taste of her own medicine.

From Salon

Edmonton’s Darnell Nurse sat after he was suspended for instigator and misconduct penalties in the same game.

From Seattle Times

Because the instigator penalty occurred in the final minute, it carries an automatic one-game suspension, a decision upheld by the NHL.

From Seattle Times

Perhaps it’s a reminder that the Zachs of the world, those ever-present instigators who seem to cause problems for everyone in their wake, distract from the important moments and people in life.

From Seattle Times

He spent more than a year as the logical No. 1 pick, but over the past three months, instigators of the most tedious process in sports pretended to discover the obvious: He’s a small quarterback.

From Washington Post

instigator

Frequently Asked Questions

Example Sentences

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