What does incite mean?
Incite is a formal verb meaning to provoke or encourage people to take action, particularly when that action is angry, violent, or socially disruptive. The word often appears with objects such as violence, hatred, rebellion, panic, and riots. It can also refer more generally to stirring an emotional response or prompting a group to act. In legal and political contexts, incitement often implies responsibility for encouraging unlawful or dangerous conduct. The word has a more serious and institutional tone than ordinary alternatives such as “prompt” or “urge,” and its use frequently carries a negative connotation, although the underlying idea can sometimes be neutral when describing encouragement to pursue an activity.
To provoke or encourage a person or group to act, especially in a hostile, violent, or disruptive way.
"The leader was charged with inciting a riot."
This is the dominant modern sense and is especially common in legal, political, and news contexts.
To stir up a strong feeling or reaction in people.
"The advertisement was accused of inciting fear among older consumers."
The object is often an emotion or reaction, such as fear, anger, hatred, or panic.
One word can ignite a crowd: incite turns anger and resentment into action.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of incite
The verb comes from Latin incitare, formed from in- and citare, meaning “to summon” or “to call forth.” It entered English in the 16th century and originally referred to arousing or prompting someone. Related English words include excite, recite, and citation, which reflect the same Latin root involving calling or rousing.
Related word forms
How incite is actually used
Usually formal and often negative in modern English. It is commonly used with words such as violence, hatred, rebellion, riot, and panic, although it can also mean prompting an action in a less harmful context.
Easily confused with incite
Incise means to cut or carve into something, whereas incite means to provoke or stir people to action.