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Synonym Chooser

How does the verb stimulate contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of stimulate are excite, pique, provoke, and quicken. While all these words mean "to arouse as if by pricking," stimulate suggests a rousing out of lethargy, quiescence, or indifference.

stimulating conversation

When would excite be a good substitute for stimulate?

While the synonyms excite and stimulate are close in meaning, excite implies a stirring up or moving profoundly.

news that excited anger and frustration

In what contexts can pique take the place of stimulate?

In some situations, the words pique and stimulate are roughly equivalent. However, pique suggests stimulating by mild irritation or challenge.

that remark piqued my interest

When might provoke be a better fit than stimulate?

The words provoke and stimulate are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, provoke directs attention to the response called forth.

my stories usually provoke laughter

When can quicken be used instead of stimulate?

The meanings of quicken and stimulate largely overlap; however, quicken implies beneficially stimulating and making active or lively.

the high salary quickened her desire to have the job

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of stimulate With exchange rate stability helping inflation to slow to 13.7% in June, its lowest level since 2021, some analysts expected the bank to start easing its policy stance to reduce borrowing costs and stimulate growth. Nana Oye Ankrah, semafor.com, 21 July 2025 Implants mimic the natural tooth root, helping to stimulate the jawbone and potentially supporting the preservation of facial structure over time. Matthew Kayser, USA Today, 18 July 2025 That involved removing genes that cause illness in humans, while enhancing genes that help kill cancer and stimulate the immune system, says Dr. In. Emily Kay Votruba, EverydayHealth.com, 18 July 2025 Doing so could stimulate economic growth, and would be warmly welcomed by the White House and investors. Hugh Cameron, MSNBC Newsweek, 11 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for stimulate
Recent Examples of Synonyms for stimulate
Verb
  • Rumors of this special berry’s presence on Boysen’s farm, after it had been sold, aroused the curiosity of Walter Knott.
    Joshua Siskin, Oc Register, 3 July 2025
  • At this moment, your suspicion should be aroused, like hearing three minor keynotes playing in a mystery film.
    Marcus K. Dowling, The Tennessean, 2 July 2025
Verb
  • Under the supervision of experts, Paul provokes sharks to attack him in multiple scenarios.
    Monica Mercuri, Forbes.com, 20 July 2025
  • While not classified among the FDA's nine major allergens, sulfites can trigger severe reactions in sensitive individuals and may provoke asthma attacks in up to 10 percent of people with asthma.
    Adeola Adeosun, MSNBC Newsweek, 19 July 2025
Verb
  • That Trump’s name appears in Epstein files the government has not yet publicized has stirred a variety of reactions among his supporters.
    Chad de Guzman, Time, 24 July 2025
  • The comment quickly stirred debate online—some viewed it as a swipe at Dr. Dre, while others interpreted it as Quik simply affirming his own stature as a production powerhouse whose contributions have long flown under the radar.
    Preezy Brown, VIBE.com, 23 July 2025
Verb
  • During his latter stint on the council, Spelman called on Austin police to reevaluate how officers spent their time and encouraged the city to consider alternative programs to reduce crime.
    Emiliano Tahui Gómez, Austin American Statesman, 25 July 2025
  • Community members are encouraged to see the stadium before the start of the 2025 football season.
    Katie Nixon, The Tennessean, 25 July 2025
Verb
  • Lila felt energized by her role in shaping the company’s future.
    Melody Wilding, Forbes.com, 15 July 2025
  • That emotional stance energizes her supporters and turns community fears into a sense of political unity.
    Matt Klink, Oc Register, 10 July 2025
Verb
  • The movie’s director herself was inspired to to bring this to life after having her own experience with matchmaking, but did the film accurately portray real New York City matchmaker experiences?
    Yola Robert, Forbes.com, 26 July 2025
  • Billy Joel has written some of the biggest hits of his generation, some of which were inspired by his family.
    Jordana Comiter, People.com, 26 July 2025
Verb
  • The pristine lakes and alpine rivers offer an invigorating chill for brave souls seeking a thrill.
    AFAR Media, AFAR Media, 18 July 2025
  • An invigorating blend of fruity flavor captures the essence of a tropical breeze.
    Jess Fleming, Twin Cities, 18 July 2025
Verb
  • Oh, for a bit of pace to enliven the first three days’ play.
    The Athletic UK Staff, New York Times, 8 July 2025
  • Since social interaction enlivens the two of you, start planning double dates with other couples and friends.
    Harriette Cole, Mercury News, 28 June 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Stimulate.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/stimulate. Accessed 29 Jul. 2025.

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