Incite

/ɪnˈsaɪt/

Meaning & Definition

verb

to stir up, provoke, or encourage (someone) to act, especially in a violent or unlawful way.

The speech was designed to incite the crowd into a frenzy.

to instigate or prompt behavior or action.

The leader’s actions could incite unrest among the population.

to encourage or stir up a particular feeling or emotion.

The movie was intended to incite feelings of nostalgia.

from Latin 'incitare', meaning 'to urge on, rouse, or provoke'.

incite a riot

to provoke or stir up a violent disturbance

incite controversy

to provoke a dispute or debate

incite rebellion

to encourage an uprising against authority

incitement

the action of provoking unlawful behavior or urging someone to behave unlawfully

instigate

to bring about or initiate an action or event

to get people fired up

His tweets really incite the fans.

to rally or pump up a crowd

The coach tried to incite the team before the big game.