Main Entry: in·cite

Pronunciation: \in-ˈsīt\

Function: transitive verb

Inflected Form(s): in·cit·ed; in·cit·ing

Etymology: Middle French inciter, from Latin incitare, from in- + citare to put in motion — more at cite

Date: 15th century

: to move to action : stir up : spur on : urge on

— in·cit·ant \-ˈsī-t^ənt\ noun

— in·cite·ment \-ˈsīt-mənt\ noun

— in·cit·er noun

synonyms incite, instigate, abet, foment mean to spur to action. incite stresses a stirring up and urging on, and may or may not imply initiating <inciting a riot>. instigate definitely implies responsibility for initiating another's action and often connotes underhandedness or evil intention <instigated a conspiracy>. abet implies both assisting and encouraging <aiding and abetting the enemy>. foment implies persistence in goading <fomenting rebellion>.