Synonyms of activate

activate

verb

ˈak-tə-ˌvāt 

as in to trigger

to cause to function

the thermostat is set to activate the heating system only when the temperature drops below 65 degrees

Synonyms & Similar Words

• trigger
• spark
• drive
• power
• generate
• move
• start
• actuate
• ignite
• fuel
• set off
• provoke
• turn on
• push
• run
• charge
• crank (up)
• touch off
• fire
• stimulate
• reactivate
• launch
• switch
• energize
• electrify
• release
• turn over
• accelerate
• recharge
• arouse
• excite
• discharge
• kick over
• stir up
• incite
• trip
• catalyze
• instigate
• quicken
• vitalize
• jump-start
• step up
• kick-start
• speed (up)

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• kill
• cut
• shut off
• cut out
• stop
• check
• turn off
• deactivate
• brake
• cut off
• stick
• halt
• arrest
• draw up
• suppress
• slow
• repress
• stall
• jam
• decelerate
• stunt

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of activate

The program rewards families for activating the account, opening a savings account alongside it, and make deposits. — John Ketcham, New York Daily News, 3 Aug. 2026

The plan is to activate Rortvedt on Tuesday, according to Roberts. — Maddie Lee, Los Angeles Times, 3 Aug. 2026

Brown practiced for the first time all training camp; he was activated from the non-football injury list. — Alex Zietlow, Charlotte Observer, 3 Aug. 2026

The series is presented by Citizens and supported by the Allegheny Regional Asset District, part of the broader Summer Concert Series effort to activate public spaces across the city. — Gabby Sartori, USA Today, 3 Aug. 2026