excite

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb excite contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of excite are pique, provoke, quicken, and stimulate. While all these words mean "to arouse as if by pricking," excite implies a stirring up or moving profoundly.

news that excited anger and frustration

When might pique be a better fit than excite?

Although the words pique and excite have much in common, pique suggests stimulating by mild irritation or challenge.

that remark piqued my interest

Where would provoke be a reasonable alternative to excite?

The meanings of provoke and excite largely overlap; however, provoke directs attention to the response called forth.

my stories usually provoke laughter

In what contexts can quicken take the place of excite?

The synonyms quicken and excite are sometimes interchangeable, but quicken implies beneficially stimulating and making active or lively.

the high salary quickened her desire to have the job

When is stimulate a more appropriate choice than excite?

The words stimulate and excite are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, stimulate suggests a rousing out of lethargy, quiescence, or indifference.

stimulating conversation

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 excite So when Japanese video game developer SNK announced Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves, released April 24, fans were excited. Lindsay Totty, NPR, 24 Apr. 2025 Juve earned around $70m from participating in this season’s tournament, but excited at the round of 32 against PSV Eindhoven. Emmet Gates, Forbes.com, 23 Apr. 2025 That said, during an appearance on The Rich Eisen Show, Ewers told guest host and NFL insider Tom Pelissero of NFL Network that there is one coach that would really excite him to play for. Arick Wierson, MSNBC Newsweek, 16 Apr. 2025 Van Lith will reunite with former teammate Angel Reese in Chicago, a prospect that excited both players. Julia Poe, Chicago Tribune, 15 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for excite
Recent Examples of Synonyms for excite
Verb
  • Loyal collectors will be thrilled with the newest addition: Emerald Check, a fresh take on that classic checkerboard pattern.
    Lauren Thomann, Better Homes & Gardens, 24 Apr. 2025
  • She was appalled by Gibson’s actions, Dever says, but thrilled by the part, which Dever performs with uncomfortably palpable insecurity, making the viewer almost feel bad for Gibson.
    Katie Heaney, Vulture, 23 Apr. 2025
Verb
  • Trump’s comments have provoked a strong reaction, including boycotts on U.S. goods and protests.
    Zac Anderson, USA Today, 26 Apr. 2025
  • These tales were layered, open to interpretation, and meant to provoke reflection and herein lies their enduring power.
    Sonya Rehman, Forbes.com, 26 Apr. 2025
Verb
  • Tyler Warren was electrifying as a senior at Penn State.
    Phil Rogers, Forbes.com, 25 Apr. 2025
  • Set in his home state of Virginia, the series will trace Vick’s powerful evolution from electrifying quarterback to impactful leader—offering an intimate portrait of a man reclaiming purpose through mentorship, service, and second chances.
    Okla Jones, Essence, 17 Apr. 2025
Verb
  • To achieve those, leaders should consider creating cultures that encourage workers to take breaks, set boundaries, and focus their energies on outcomes.
    Adia Harvey Wingfield, Forbes.com, 1 May 2025
  • In a key way, the American health system encourages it.
    Rebecca T Brown, The Orlando Sentinel, 1 May 2025
Verb
  • Just days ahead of her latest birthday, Burnett delighted fans with a guest appearance in the April 24 episode of Hacks.
    Erin Clack, People.com, 27 Apr. 2025
  • The Packers delighted hometown fans by finally using a first-round pick on a receiver for the first time since 2002, selecting Texas wideout Matthew Golden, who covered 40 yards in a scorching 4.29 seconds at the scouting combine.
    Sam Farmer, Los Angeles Times, 25 Apr. 2025
Verb
  • Laser resurfacing uses the same technology to remove the top layer of skin and stimulate collagen production.
    Carrie Madormo, RN, MPH, Verywell Health, 30 Apr. 2025
  • Over-the-counter treatments like minoxidil (Rogaine) may be suggested to stimulate regrowth.
    Mohammed Soliman, MSNBC Newsweek, 29 Apr. 2025
Verb
  • Known for supporting individuals with autism — an effort inspired by his son, Jonathan — Eichenholz is using the house in part to support Jonathan’s Landing Foundation, which seeks to create housing for 500 people and 5,000 jobs to help adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
    Laura Kinsler, The Orlando Sentinel, 3 May 2025
  • This is a great opportunity for communities to honor the country’s past, celebrate its present, and inspire its future through events and video storytelling.
    Connie Etemadi, USA Today, 3 May 2025
Verb
  • The double agent Clive arouses Jake’s suspicion immediately, and Sheriff McDowell vouches for him despite being unable to distinguish an Irish accent from a Scottish one.
    Amanda Whiting, Vulture, 6 Apr. 2025
  • Their sympathies can be aroused by the stories spun by protectionist politicians.
    David B. McGarry, Baltimore Sun, 30 Mar. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Excite.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/excite. Accessed 6 May. 2025.

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