Inspire
Definition, Meaning & Examples
Pronunciation /ɪnˈspaɪə(ɹ)/ · Part of speech verb
Quick meaning: Inspire is a verb meaning (ambitransitive) To draw in by the operation of breathing; to inhale.
Meaning
(ambitransitive) To draw in by the operation of breathing; to inhale.
More Meanings
- To infuse by breathing, or as if by breathing.
- (transitive) To spread rumour indirectly.
- (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.
- (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.
- (archaic, transitive) To breathe into; to fill with the breath; to animate.
Example Sentences
Dawning day new comfort hath inspired.
Elders should inspire children with sentiments of virtue.
He knew not his Maker, and him that inspired into him an active soul.
The captain's speech was aimed to inspire her team to victory in the final.
Word Forms
- inspires
- inspiring
- inspired
Synonyms for inspire
Depending on context, synonyms include beghast, prompt, exalt, urge, instigate, invigorate.
Antonyms for inspire
Common opposites include expire.
Related Words
Related dictionary entries include exalt, exhort, revolutionize, enliven, invigorate, instigate.
Related Dictionary Tools
Sources & Attribution
FreeDictionaryAPI.com / Wiktionary · Original source · CC BY-SA 4.0
Dictionary data is provided by FreeDictionaryAPI.com and sourced from Wiktionary under its stated license.