Meaning

(transitive) To infuse into the mind; to communicate to the spirit; to convey, as by a divine or supernatural influence; to disclose preternaturally; to produce in, as by inspiration..

Definitions by Sense

1. (transitive) To infuse into the mind; to communicate to the spirit; to convey, as by a divine or supernatural influence; to disclose preternaturally; to produce in, as by inspiration.
2. (transitive) To infuse into; to affect, as with a superior or supernatural influence; to fill with what animates, enlivens or exalts; to communicate inspiration to.
3. (ambitransitive) To draw in by the operation of breathing; to inhale.
4. To infuse by breathing, or as if by breathing.
5. (archaic, transitive) To breathe into; to fill with the breath; to animate.
6. (transitive) To spread rumour indirectly.

Example Sentences

Dawning day new comfort hath inspired.

He knew not his Maker, and him that inspired into him an active soul.

[…] and whose example of reverence and devotion was so well calculated to inspire confidence and attachment in every class of the community?

Last spring, the periodical cicadas emerged across eastern North America. Their vast numbers and short above-ground life spans inspired awe and irritation in humans—and made for good meals for birds and small mammals.

Elders should inspire children with sentiments of virtue.

The captain's speech was aimed to inspire her team to victory in the final.

Erato, thy poet's mind inspire, / And fill his soul with thy celestial fire.

By means of those sulfurous coal smokes the lungs are as it were stifled and extremely oppressed, whereby they are forced to inspire and expire the air with difficulty.

Word Forms

• inspires
• inspiring
• inspired

Synonyms for inspire

Antonyms for inspire

Related Words

When Should You Use Inspire?

Use inspire when its meaning, tone and grammar fit the full sentence. A synonym is not always a direct replacement.

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