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

Vagal tone stimulation activates the vagus nerve to slow heart rate and lower stress hormones. — Samantha Agate, Kansas City Star, 3 Sep. 2026

The bi-phase formula activates with a quick shake and absorbs effortlessly into skin. — Sheryl George, Glamour, 2 Sep. 2026

The moon’s connection to Jupiter activates your spiritual side. — Usa Today, USA Today, 2 Sep. 2026

Kohler’s Dekoda, one of the newest entries, activates with a fingerprint tap on a remote. — Hanna Wickes, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 27 Aug. 2026

Before taking them on, I was allowed to pick a custom chip that gives Mega Man a power-up that activates with R1. — Gieson Cacho, Mercury News, 26 Aug. 2026

This celestial season activates your expansive ninth house of adventure, education and exposure, inspiring you to take a leap of faith or perhaps even embark on a meaningful trip. — Valerie Mesa, PEOPLE, 22 Aug. 2026

The result is a drug delivery system that activates only when needed, avoiding the risk of long-term administration of needlessly high doses. — Mike McRae 19, New Atlas, 20 Aug. 2026

The drug activates the orexin pathway that is dysfunctional in people with the condition, restoring the brain’s ability to remain alert during the day, and is approved for people with narcolepsy type 1. — Alice Park, Time, 18 Aug. 2026