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

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

Supporters say Balen was echoing public anger over the protester deaths, not instigating it.

From The Wall Street Journal

At 4 Nations last February, the Americans traveled to Montreal, instigated three fights in the first nine seconds in front of a hostile crowd—and emerged victorious.

From The Wall Street Journal

That was held up as a great breach of etiquette, instigating calls for additional officials and even video reviews in a sport where competitors have traditionally called their own fouls.

From Los Angeles Times

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

Related Words

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