activate
11 synonyms and 2 antonyms for activate, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Verb — To make something start working or become active.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Antonyms
How to use activate
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
From active plus the verb-forming suffix -ate.
Full origin of activate →Frequently asked questions
What does “activate” mean?
The word “activate” means to make something start working or become active. In plain terms, to switch something on or set it in motion, whether it's a device, an account, or a chemical reaction.
How do you pronounce “activate”?
“Activate” is pronounced AK-tih-vayt (/ˈæktɪˌveɪt/ in IPA).
How do you use “activate” in a sentence?
Here is “activate” used in a sentence: “Press the button to activate the alarm system.”
What is another word for “activate”?
Words with a similar meaning to “activate” include actuate, enable, get going, set going, set in motion and set off.
What is the opposite of “activate”?
The opposite of “activate” — its antonyms — are deactivate and inactivate.
What part of speech is “activate”?
“Activate” is a verb.
Is “activate” a common word?
“Activate” is a fairly common word in modern English.
How many meanings does “activate” have?
“Activate” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to make something start working or become active.
What is the difference between activate and enable?
Activate means to make something start working or become active, often switching it from an off or dormant state to a functioning one. Enable more broadly means to give something the ability or permission to happen, which may not always involve directly starting it.
When is activate used in a chemical or biological sense?
Activate can describe making a chemical or biological process more reactive or effective, such as activating an enzyme. This scientific use is distinct from the general sense of simply turning something on.
Is activate used for devices, accounts, and processes alike?
Yes, activate is used broadly across contexts, including activating a device, a bank card, a software licence, or a biological process. In each case it signals a shift from inactive to functioning.