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

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

Whether positive or challenging, everyone will see it while the Scorpio moon activates Jupiter. — Usa Today, USA Today, 18 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

Hinge slightly forward at the hips, which activates your glutes and hamstrings and puts less pressure on your knees. — Emily Kay Votruba, EverydayHealth.com, 13 Aug. 2026

Founded by Gracia Walker and Benjamin Silver, Broc Shot centers on sulforaphane, a compound derived from broccoli seed that activates the NRF2 pathway, part of the body’s natural defense system. — Ryma Chikhoune, Footwear News, 12 Aug. 2026

Pinching and holding both buds at the same time activates a new Audio Snapshot mode that records phone call audio or incoming sound and syncs it to the Nothing X app. — Mark Knapp, PC Magazine, 7 Aug. 2026

Tirzepatide, sold as Zepbound and Mounjaro, activates GLP-1 and GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide). — Emily Cegielski, Flow Space, 6 Aug. 2026

The Marine Rain Massage is an immersive treatment that releases muscle tension, calms the nervous system, and activates circulation. — Rana Good, Condé Nast Traveler, 1 Aug. 2026