Incitement
/ɪnˈsaɪt.mənt/
Meaning & Definition
noun
The action of provoking unlawful behavior or urging someone to behave unlawfully.
The court found him guilty of incitement to violence after his speech led to a riot.
The act of stirring up or encouraging in a way that may lead to action or conflict.
The incitement of public unrest was a serious offense for which she was prosecuted.
The act of encouraging or instigating someone to take a particular action, especially a negative one.
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
Hype up
They were hyping up the crowd for the concert.
Stir the pot
He likes to stir the pot with his comments.