resonate

American  

[rez-uh-neyt] / ˈrɛz əˌneɪt /

verb (used without object)

resonated, resonating

1. to resound.

2. to act as a resonator; exhibit resonance.

3. Electronics. to reinforce oscillations because the natural frequency of the device is the same as the frequency of the source.

4. to amplify vocal sound by the sympathetic vibration of air in certain cavities and bony structures.

5. to produce a positive feeling, emotional response, or opinion.

   an issue that clearly resonates with members of our community; a poem that resonates for me.

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verb (used with object)

resonated, resonating

1. to cause to resound.

resonate British  

/ ˈrɛzəˌneɪt /

verb

1. to resound or cause to resound; reverberate

2. (of a mechanical system, electrical circuit, chemical compound, etc) to exhibit or cause to exhibit resonance

3. to be understood or receive a sympathetic response

   themes which will resonate with voters

4. to be filled with

   simple words that seem to resonate with mystery and beauty

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Other Word Forms

• resonation
  noun
• unresonating
  adjective

Etymology

Origin of resonate

First recorded in 1870–75; from Latin resonātus “sounded again,” past participle of resonāre “to sound again”; see resound

Explanation

To resonate is to make, hear, or even understand a deep, full sound. Your speech about the dangers of scarves and convertibles will resonate with your audience if you tell the story of Isadora Duncan's death. The verb resonate, which comes from the Latin resonatum, first referred only to sound, but has now developed an emotional connotation. Resonate sounds a whole lot like another verb, resound, but they have subtly different meanings. Resound means “to repeat the sound,” but resonate means “to expand, amplify.” Sound can resonate when broadcast through speakers, and so can an idea or feeling, when expressed articulately or with passion.

Example Sentences

This new format seems to resonate with Kelly’s fans.

From Slate • May 6, 2026

“This includes unlocking future growth by expanding our geographic footprint, continuing to build brands that resonate with consumers, and enhancing operational efficiency.”

From Barron's • Apr. 29, 2026

While “narrative/headlines may fuel the vibe for now,” he said, elements within Intel’s report might resonate with bearish investors.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 24, 2026

Stocks hit a record on Feb. 19, and the gravity of the emergency didn’t resonate with many Americans until weeks later.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 24, 2026

As it increases its pace, the sea itself seems to resonate with its movement, beginning to revolve in a slow eddy, but quickly picking up speed.

From "Challenger Deep" by Neal Shusterman

Related Words

• echo
• reverberate
• vibrate