1
as in motivation
something that arouses action or activity
She traveled cross-country seeking inspiration for her next book. He credits his mother as his inspiration for becoming a social worker.
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2
as in creativity
the ability to form mental images of things that either are not physically present or have never been conceived or created by others
They were a group of young artists filled with inspiration.
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3
as in uplift
a feeling of ease from grief or trouble
The return of summer brought with it a new sense of inspiration.
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Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of inspiration
Kim’s path to his profession and his willingness to launch his own firm come from a rich backstory of inspiration, education and experience that shaped his work as a personal injury lawyer.
—
K.h. Koehler, USA Today, 8 June 2026
And its use of initiatives to restrict immigration has served as an inspiration to right-wing movements in Europe.
—Jessi Jezewska Stevens, New Yorker, 8 June 2026
The now-teenager has been a constant presence by her mom's side over the years, joining her on her world tours, appearing in a music video and serving as inspiration for Pink's songs.
—ABC News, 8 June 2026
Agnetha would be Ritvo’s main inspiration for Marcellus.
—Jazz Tangcay, Variety, 8 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for inspiration
K.h. Koehler, USA Today, 8 June 2026
And its use of initiatives to restrict immigration has served as an inspiration to right-wing movements in Europe.
—Jessi Jezewska Stevens, New Yorker, 8 June 2026
The now-teenager has been a constant presence by her mom's side over the years, joining her on her world tours, appearing in a music video and serving as inspiration for Pink's songs.
—ABC News, 8 June 2026
Agnetha would be Ritvo’s main inspiration for Marcellus.
—Jazz Tangcay, Variety, 8 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for inspiration
Recent Examples of Synonyms for inspiration
Noun
-
No matter the motivation or trading strategy, going short is a bet that a stock will decline in price.—
Zev Fima,
CNBC,
29 May 2026
-
Osuch said the ability to keep his future options open was his motivation.—
Cyril A. Reinicke,
San Diego Union-Tribune,
29 May 2026
Noun
-
That spirit still drives the family today, even as each sibling approaches creativity from a different angle.—
Datwon Thomas,
VIBE.com,
6 June 2026
-
However, bringing the villa to life has required a surprising amount of time, materials and creativity.—
Jordan Greene,
PEOPLE,
6 June 2026
Noun
-
The bank does not, however, see a similar uplift to the spirits market.—
Joseph Wilkins,
CNBC,
4 June 2026
-
Wind uplift can loosen or lift shingles, creating vulnerable areas where water can enter.—
David Nye,
The Orlando Sentinel,
27 May 2026
Noun
-
Benjamin Cano, who brought his wife and three kids down from Norwalk for Friday’s game, was down behind the Padres dugout offering encouragement before the game.—
Kirk Kenney,
San Diego Union-Tribune,
7 June 2026
-
Volunteers with the organization Free Mom Hugs offered encouragement to attendees whose families may not be as supportive.—
Eva Andersen,
CBS News,
6 June 2026
Noun
-
No prizes will be given for imagination alone!—
USA TODAY,
USA Today,
7 June 2026
-
Ranging from seemingly endless desert plains to rugged mountain ranges, the region is filled with scenic drives, plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventure, and best of all, wide-open spaces that let the imagination roam free.—
Gabi De la Rosa,
Travel + Leisure,
7 June 2026
Noun
-
When the fabric is right, your comfort is sure to follow — but choosing pieces that are also work-appropriate is trickier.—
Tanya Sharma,
PEOPLE,
29 May 2026
-
The Outback continues to balance passenger comfort with true utility thanks to its 60/40 split-folding rear seatbacks, multi-use cargo area and substantial roof rail system capable of supporting up to 800 pounds of static load capacity.—
Tim Jackson,
Denver Post,
29 May 2026
Noun
-
The beloved 35-year-old Florida Ficus at the entrance is the impetus for the iconic logo.—
Condé Nast,
Condé Nast Traveler,
2 June 2026
-
The impetus of Vanity Fair’s meeting with Nézet-Séguin was the Met’s new production of El Último Sueño de Frida y Diego, a recent work from US composer Gabriela Lena Frank (in her Met debut).—
Eve Batey,
Vanity Fair,
2 June 2026
Noun
-
There are tons of spa treatments, all on the affordable side, ranging from an abdominal relaxation ritual for digestive lightness to cranial drainage for migraine relief.—
Condé Nast,
Condé Nast Traveler,
3 June 2026
-
But the Bears’ fate was left unclear — perhaps to be decided only by the team — when state lawmakers adjourned without agreeing on a property-tax relief plan for the team.—
Rick Pearson,
Chicago Tribune,
2 June 2026
Cite this Entry
“Inspiration.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/inspiration. Accessed 9 Jun. 2026.
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