Meaning & Definition of word "Agitate"
to
Agitate
/ˈædʒɪˌteɪt/
verb:
- 1. To move or stir up; to disturb or excite emotionally.
- Example: The activist's speech was designed to agitate the crowd into action.
- 2. To incite or instigate; to promote or encourage (something).
- Example: The organization was formed to agitate for social justice reforms.
- 3. To stir or shake (a liquid) to promote a reaction or mixing.
- Example: Please agitate the solution before adding the reagent.
- 4. To vex or trouble; to cause anxiety or concern.
- Example: The ongoing debates in the community agitate her thoughts.
Etymology
From Latin 'agitare', frequentative of 'agere' meaning 'to drive, act'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
agitate for change:
To actively campaign or advocate for changes in a situation.
agitate the waters:
To cause disturbance or unsettle a situation or a group.
agitated state:
A condition of emotional disturbance or unrest.
Related Words
agitation:
The state of being agitated; emotional disturbance.
agitator:
A person who stirs up public feeling, especially for political purposes.
agitated:
In a state of anxiety or nervousness.
Slang Meanings of agitate
Meaning: To get someone worked up.
Example Sentence: Stop agitating him, he’s already on edge.
Meaning: To annoy or provoke someone.
Example Sentence: She knows how to agitate him just for fun.