stimulates

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.

Many contain large amounts of caffeine, which stimulates the central nervous system and makes you feel more awake.

From BBC • Jun. 22, 2026

It is used to end pregnancies through 10 weeks gestation in combination with the drug misoprostol, which stimulates contractions and softens the cervix, allowing tissue to expel.

From Barron's • May 10, 2026

These sell for hundreds of pounds, if not thousands, with manufacturers claiming that use of red light stimulates collagen production and reduces fine lines.

From BBC • May 2, 2026

As sleep continues, growth hormone gradually builds up and stimulates the locus coeruleus, nudging the brain toward waking.

From Science Daily • Mar. 30, 2026

This substance evidently stimulates the normal wording behavior in the hive.

From "The Secret Life of Bees" by Sue Monk Kidd