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Synonym Chooser

How does the verb stimulate contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of stimulate are excite, pique, provoke, and quicken. While all these words mean "to arouse as if by pricking," stimulate suggests a rousing out of lethargy, quiescence, or indifference.

stimulating conversation

When would excite be a good substitute for stimulate?

While the synonyms excite and stimulate are close in meaning, excite implies a stirring up or moving profoundly.

news that excited anger and frustration

In what contexts can pique take the place of stimulate?

In some situations, the words pique and stimulate are roughly equivalent. However, pique suggests stimulating by mild irritation or challenge.

that remark piqued my interest

When might provoke be a better fit than stimulate?

The words provoke and stimulate are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, provoke directs attention to the response called forth.

my stories usually provoke laughter

When can quicken be used instead of stimulate?

The meanings of quicken and stimulate largely overlap; however, quicken implies beneficially stimulating and making active or lively.

the high salary quickened her desire to have the job

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of stimulate Outfitted with lights and sounds to stimulate sensory skills, this toy transforms from a stationary busy board into an activity table, drawing table, and stand-up easel. Pamela Brill, Parents, 2 Oct. 2025 However, studies show that the practice can stimulate the nervous system in a way that helps decrease pain and promote relaxation. Carley Millhone, Health, 2 Oct. 2025 Against this backdrop, the Fed is expected to lower interest rates at least two more times this year to stimulate consumer and business spending following its September quarter-point cut. John W. Diamond, The Conversation, 2 Oct. 2025 Blue light targets acne-causing bacteria to help keep breakouts at bay, while red and near-infrared wavelengths penetrate deeper to stimulate collagen, improve circulation, and promote skin repair. Conçetta Ciarlo, Vogue, 1 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for stimulate
Recent Examples of Synonyms for stimulate
Verb
  • But then Swift reveals the full conceit of the song, which is how flattering and even arousing it is to hear about someone thinking about you constantly (even if for negative reasons).
    Zack Sharf, Variety, 3 Oct. 2025
  • The scans aroused suspicions, and the decision was made to admit Jim through the emergency room.
    Ann Patchett, New Yorker, 29 Sep. 2025
Verb
  • Throughout the weekend, McIlroy and other European players sparred with fans, provoking the Irish golfer in at least one instance to yell back at the crowd, while others flashed middle fingers in response to the jeers.
    Anna Lazarus Caplan, PEOPLE, 30 Sep. 2025
  • Yet, as many observers predicted, attempts to extend transatlantic cohesion through NATO expansion ultimately provoked a Russian reaction that a transatlantic relationship premised on economic cooperation might not have had.
    JENNIFER KAVANAGH, Foreign Affairs, 30 Sep. 2025
Verb
  • Add corn and 3/4 teaspoon of the salt; cook, stirring often, until tender, about 4 minutes.
    Elizabeth Mervosh, Southern Living, 5 Oct. 2025
  • Cook over medium heat until onion is tender and sausage begins to brown, stirring occasionally, about 8 minutes.
    Sarah Martens, Better Homes & Gardens, 5 Oct. 2025
Verb
  • Attendees left the event with tourniquets or trauma bandages and were encouraged to reach out to Bound Tree Medical to purchase additional supplies for their congregations.
    Nour Rahal, Freep.com, 4 Oct. 2025
  • Deadheading encourages chocolate cosmos plants to produce more flower buds, keeping plants productive.
    Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 3 Oct. 2025
Verb
  • The vital thing about the history of this art form is its creative power, its ability to energize filmmakers of later generations and inspire movies to come.
    Richard Brody, New Yorker, 2 Oct. 2025
  • All the same rules as seeing a movie in a theater apply, combined with the same energizing feelings a live concert gives.
    Meredith G. White, AZCentral.com, 1 Oct. 2025
Verb
  • The show gave local independent musicians exposure on its soundtrack, increased the popularity of venues like The Bluebird Cafe, inspired cast tours and years later, sparked reunion tours.
    Audrey Gibbs, Nashville Tennessean, 5 Oct. 2025
  • Trailers showing Erivo in full green-skinned Elphaba costume and Grande decked out in a sparkly pink G(a)linda gown have surely inspired new and old fans alike.
    Mary Walrath-Holdridge, USA Today, 4 Oct. 2025
Verb
  • Miller launches right into her invigorating assessment and keeps the pace up throughout.
    Ben Travers, IndieWire, 4 Oct. 2025
  • Best-Smelling Body Wash With the weather cooling down, creating a spa-like experience in your shower can invigorate your senses and spark some joy this season—even on the gloomiest of days.
    Jessie Quinn, StyleCaster, 3 Oct. 2025
Verb
  • Though Worthy’s spirit enlivened the group — he could be seen dancing and sharing team handshakes with other wideouts during practice this week — the Chiefs also welcomed receiver Rashee Rice back into their meeting rooms.
    Jesse Newell, New York Times, 29 Sep. 2025
  • The discussion was enlivened by questions from a packed house of students and cinephiles.
    Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 25 Sep. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Stimulate.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/stimulate. Accessed 8 Oct. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on stimulate

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