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Word of the Day Tuesday, June 9, 2026

instigate

/ɪnˈstɪɡeɪt/ verb · British & US
Valid in UKValid in US
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What does instigate mean?

verb

To encourage or provoke someone to take action, often in a way that is not entirely honest or fair. To start or cause something to happen, often in a way that is not planned or controlled.

Example

"The politician's inflammatory speech was designed to instigate a riot."

Definition generated by AI and curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.

Synonyms for instigate

Antonyms of instigate

Rhymes with instigate

Etymologically related