Synonyms of activates

activates

verb

present tense third-person singular of activate

as in triggers

to cause to function

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

Synonyms & Similar Words

• triggers
• sparks
• drives
• generates
• powers
• moves
• actuates
• starts
• fuels
• ignites
• provokes
• pushes
• sets off
• runs
• turns on
• stimulates
• cranks (up)
• energizes
• fires
• launches
• charges
• electrifies
• reactivates
• touches off
• switches
• releases
• accelerates
• arouses
• turns over
• excites
• recharges
• incites
• instigates
• discharges
• catalyzes
• trips
• quickens
• kicks over
• vitalizes
• kick-starts
• stirs up
• jump-starts
• speeds (up)
• steps up

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• kills
• cuts
• stops
• brakes
• deactivates
• turns off
• shuts off
• cuts out
• arrests
• checks
• halts
• sticks
• stalls
• jams
• slows
• cuts off
• suppresses
• draws up
• represses
• decelerates
• stunts

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of activates

People respond positively to hearing their own names—according to a study from the Institute for the Study of Child Development, hearing one’s name activates the left hemisphere of the brain. — Aytekin Tank, Forbes.com, 7 July 2026

Honest sharing rises as the dynamic Sun activates your 8th House of Intimacy and Shared Resources, making clarity around money, time, and emotional investment more valuable. — Tarot.com, Baltimore Sun, 6 July 2026

Crushing or chopping garlic activates allicin, its key compound, and fresh ginger provides gingerol. — Heather Jones, Verywell Health, 4 July 2026

Rucking activates the upper trapezius, shoulders, upper back, abdominals, obliques and lower back, according to trainers and coaches who specialize in the method. — Samantha Agate, Charlotte Observer, 1 July 2026

When the predator is close at hand, our body activates a set of automatic responses. — Literary Hub, 30 June 2026

Mars activates your 8th House of Intimacy and Shared Resources, motivating you to tackle sensitive matters with courage and protect what truly matters. — Tarot.com, Sun Sentinel, 28 June 2026

The study identified phytic acid as one trigger that activates it. — Ryan Brennan, Sacbee.com, 24 June 2026

Beliefs bump against reality as the emotional Moon activates your 9th House of Learning, quincunx combative Mars in your 4th House of Home. — Tarot.com, Hartford Courant, 23 June 2026