Meaning & Definition of word "Agitate"

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.