incite
Incite (verb) means to urge or provoke someone into action, especially something violent or unlawful. Example: “The speech was accused of inciting violence at the rally.”
How to use incite
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo stir someone up into doing something, usually something bad.
Don't confuse with insight (understanding) — incite is about provoking action.
Word forms
incited past tense, incites singular
Etymology
From Latin incitō, "to set in motion, urge on," from in- + citō, "to set in motion" — related to "cite" and "excite."
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for incite
See all rhymes for 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.