actuate
verb (used with object)
have actuated
-
present perfectof actuate.present perfect
Used to describe actions that started in the past and continue into or have direct relevance to the present.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
A desperate sense of humor, clutching at whatever pleasing it could find in the sullen array of 'social protest' and of drab 'American scene,' seems to have actuated the prize-awarding jurors.
From Time Magazine Archive
"A fellow-feeling makes one wondrous kind," wrote Garrick, and something of this nature must have actuated Judge Bela Brown in a case in a Circuit Court of Georgia.
From Law and Laughter by George A. (George Alexander) Morton
Nobler motives than those ascribed to him by Durand may be supposed to have actuated a man of his simple and lofty nature.
From The Afghan Wars 1839-42 and 1878-80 by Archibald Forbes
Humanity, rather than desire of gain, seems to have actuated this single hearted and amiable being; and never were the virtues of charity recorded in more touching strains.
From Dr. Johnson's Works: Life, Poems, and Tales, Volume 1 The Works of Samuel Johnson, Ll.D., in Nine Volumes by Samuel Johnson
This tenderness of spirit seems ever to have actuated Johnson, and he is surely greatest when he breathes it forth over the sorrows and miseries of man.
From The Works of Samuel Johnson, Volume 04 The Adventurer; The Idler by Samuel Johnson
