instigate

American  

[in-sti-geyt] / ˈɪn stɪˌgeɪt /

verb (used with object)

instigated, instigating

1. to cause by incitement; foment.

   to instigate a quarrel.

   Synonyms:

   provoke, arouse

2. to urge, provoke, or incite to some action or course.

   to instigate the people to revolt.

   Synonyms:

   start, initiate, push, encourage, stimulate, induce

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instigate British  

/ ˈɪnstɪˌɡeɪt /

verb

1. to bring about, as by incitement or urging

   to instigate rebellion

2. to urge on to some drastic or inadvisable action

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Other Word Forms

• instigatingly adverb
• instigation noun
• instigative adjective
• instigator noun
• uninstigated adjective
• uninstigative adjective

Etymology

Origin of instigate

First recorded in 1535–45; from Latin instīgātus, past participle of instīgāre “to goad on, impel,” equivalent to in- “in” + -stīg- “to goad, prick” + -ātus past participle suffix; in- ², -ate ¹; akin to stigma, stick ²

Explanation

When you instigate something, you start it, but the word carries conflict with it. If you are suspended for wearing a political t-shirt, the incident might instigate days of protest by students and faculty. Instigate comes from the Latin word instigare "to incite." People who are instigators often begin trouble but then back off and let others break the rules. If you instigate a food fight in the cafeteria, you might throw the first spoonful of mashed potatoes, but then you stop and let all the other students carry on the chaos. When something is instigated, the outcome tends to be unknown. The plan you instigate might not lead to the desired result.

Example Sentences

"We are against all scenarios that aim to instigate a civil war in Iran, that target ethnic or religious fault lines," Fidan told journalists in Istanbul.

From Barron's • Mar. 7, 2026

The force said it would "instigate investigations if directed by the courts and responsible authorities", adding: "As always, our thoughts are with Oki's family and friends who remain devastated by their loss."

From BBC • Feb. 16, 2026

Meo co-owner Tannis Ling, who spent many weekends in Chinatown with her family as a child, has helped instigate Chinatown’s resurgence.

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 27, 2025

Please instigate a “no call zone” that covers the Dodger bullpen.

From Los Angeles Times • Sep. 20, 2025

“Oh snap,” Freddy said, trying to instigate a throwdown.

From "The Stars Beneath Our Feet" by David Barclay Moore

Related Words

• abet
• bring about
• foment
• incite
• inflame
• initiate
• kindle
• plot
• prompt
• spur
• whip up