stimulate
stimulate Lexical Profile
stimulate Game Scores & Validity
• verb
To encourage or promote the development, growth, or increased activity of something.
"The central bank lowered interest rates to stimulate economic growth and job creation."
To arouse interest, enthusiasm, curiosity, or creative thought in a person.
"Interactive museum exhibits are designed to stimulate the curiosity of young learners."
To raise levels of physiological or nervous activity in the body or a specific biological organ.
"Caffeine acts on the central nervous system to temporarily stimulate alertness and reduce drowsiness."
Word Nuance & Usage
Do not confuse 'stimulate' (to rouse, excite, or encourage activity) with 'simulate' (to imitate or replicate the appearance or character of something).
• Rhymes for stimulate
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Borrowed in the mid-16th century from Latin 'stimulatus', the past participle of 'stimulare' ('to prick or urge on'), derived from 'stimulus', referring to a pointed cattle prod or goad.