English Dictionary
Definition of “instigate”
instigate (ˈɪnstɪˌɡeɪt
)
Definitions
verb (tr)
- to bring about, as by incitement or urging ⇒
to instigate rebellion
- to urge on to some drastic or inadvisable action
Alternative Forms
ˈinstiˌgatingly adverb ˌinstiˈgation noun ˈinstiˌgative adjective ˈinstiˌgator noun Word Origin
C16: from Latin instīgāre to stimulate, incite; compare Greek stizein to prick
Synonyms
View thesaurus entry
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provoke,
start,
encourage,
move,
influence,
prompt,
trigger,
spur,
stimulate,
set off,
initiate,
bring about,
rouse,
prod,
stir up,
get going
incite,
kick-start,
whip up,
impel,
kindle,
foment,
actuate,
Usage examples
It is the kind of joint development ideal for us both and a model for the sort of project we must instigate.
Malcolm, John, The Gwen John Sculpture (1985)The report recommended that companies instigate Bluetooth security policies to prevent data falling into the wrong hands.
New Scientist (2003)Hence, if baseball's bosses don't instigate testing legislation by next month, Congress will do it for them.
The Advertiser, Sunday Mail (2004)The findings have been called `provocative" by experts, some of whom remain unconvinced that cyclosporine can directly instigate a cancer.
Independent (1999)Whilst this was happening, I tried to instigate divorce proceedings.
Jackson, Rosie, Mothers who Leave (1994)
