Meaning & Definition of word "Incitement"

Incitement

/ɪnˈsaɪt.mənt/

noun:

  • 1. The action of provoking unlawful behavior or urging someone to behave unlawfully.
    • Example: The court found him guilty of incitement to violence after his speech led to a riot.
  • 2. The act of stirring up or encouraging in a way that may lead to action or conflict.
    • Example: The incitement of public unrest was a serious offense for which she was prosecuted.
  • 3. The act of encouraging or instigating someone to take a particular action, especially a negative one.
    • Example: Her incitement of the crowd was seen as a clear violation of the law.

Etymology

Derived from the Latin 'incitamentum', from 'incitare' meaning to urge on.

Common Phrases and Expressions

incitement to violence:

Encouragement or provocation of violent acts.

incitement of hatred:

Provoking negative feelings towards a group.

political incitement:

Encouraging others to act in a politically motivated manner.

Related Words

incite:

To stir up or provoke to action.

instigate:

To bring about or initiate an action.

provoke:

To stimulate or incite a reaction.

Slang Meanings of incitement

Meaning: Hype up

Example Sentence: They were hyping up the crowd for the concert.

Meaning: Stir the pot

Example Sentence: He likes to stir the pot with his comments.