incite
47 synonyms and 11 antonyms for incite, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Verb — To urge or provoke someone into action, especially something violent or unlawful.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
goose
sting
cheer
evoke
grill
ignite
induce
lash
invoke
motive
motivate
prompt
provoke
spur
stimulate
stir
stoke
urge
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Antonyms
How to use incite
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
incite violence
incite hatred
incite a riot
Etymology
From Latin incitō, "to set in motion, urge on," from in- + citō, "to set in motion" — related to "cite" and "excite."
Full origin of incite →Frequently asked questions
What does “incite” mean?
The word “incite” means to urge or provoke someone into action, especially something violent or unlawful. In plain terms, to stir someone up into doing something, usually something bad.
How do you pronounce “incite”?
“Incite” is pronounced ihn-SYT (/ɪnˈsaɪt/ in IPA).
How do you use “incite” in a sentence?
Here is “incite” used in a sentence: “The speech was accused of inciting violence at the rally.”
What is another word for “incite”?
Words with a similar meaning to “incite” include abet, actuate, goose, send, light a fire under and sting.
What is the opposite of “incite”?
The opposite of “incite” — its antonyms — are curb, daunt, demoralize, demotivate and deter.
What part of speech is “incite”?
“Incite” is a verb.
Where does the word “incite” come from?
The word “incite” comes from Latin. From Latin incitō, "to set in motion, urge on," from in- + citō, "to set in motion" — related to "cite" and "excite.".
Is “incite” a common word?
“Incite” is an uncommon word in modern English.
