spurred

[spurd] / spɜrd /

VERB

incite, prompt

Synonyms

STRONGEST

arouse drive propel push spark stimulate stir trigger

STRONG

animate awaken countenance exhort favor goad goose impel instigate press prick prod rally rouse sic urge

WEAK

egg on fire up key up put up to turn on work up

Antonyms

STRONGEST

calm check discourage dissuade halt repress stop

STRONG

deaden

WEAK

disapprove

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.

The White House said the threat of tariffs had already spurred pharmaceutical firms to promise $400bn investments in the US.

From BBC • Apr. 2, 2026

The fatal crashes spurred an investigation by federal auto-safety regulators into BlueCruise and the technology’s limitations.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 31, 2026

Rheinmetall's business has boomed since Russia's 2022 full-scale invasion of Ukraine spurred a re-armament drive in Europe.

From Barron's • Mar. 29, 2026

The worldwide moral reckoning spurred many nations, including the United States, to adopt new laws which offer protection to those fleeing persecution.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 24, 2026

They stood gravely in their plumed helmets, spurred and armed.

From "The Once and Future King" by T. H. White