Inspiration

Definition

The process of being mentally stimulated to do or feel something, especially something creative; a sudden brilliant or timely idea.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˌɪnspəˈreɪʃən/
• Respelling: in-spuh-RAY-shun (with "in" as in "tin," "spuh" as in "sofa," "RAY" as in "say," and "shun" as in "nation")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˌɪnspɪˈreɪʃən/
• Respelling: in-spi-RAY-shun (with "in" as in "tin," "spi" as in "sit," "RAY" as in "say," and "shun" as in "nation")

In both dialects, "inspiration" places the primary stress on the third syllable, "RAY." The American pronunciation includes "spuh," while the British pronunciation includes "spi," focusing on the clear articulation of "in-spuh-RAY-shun" (American) and "in-spi-RAY-shun" (British).

Etymology

The term "inspiration" originates from the Latin word 'inspiratio', which means 'to breathe into' or 'infuse animation or influence'. It is derived from 'inspirare' which is from 'in-' (into) + 'spirare' (to breathe). It metaphorically refers to giving an idea or impulse from a supernatural source.

Derivatives

• Inspire (verb)
• Inspirational (adjective)
• Inspirer (noun)
• Inspiring (adjective)
• Inspiratory (adjective)

Synonyms

• Motivation
• Stimulus
• Muse

Antonyms

• Discouragement
• Deterrent
• Disincentive

Usage

"Inspiration" is used to describe the mental stimulation that leads to creativity or the generation of new ideas. It is commonly associated with artistic and intellectual activities.

Related Terms

• Enlightenment
• Brainwave
• Vision
• Influence
• Spark

Detailed Definition

Noun

• Inspiration (Noun, General): The process of being mentally stimulated to do or feel something, especially something creative.
  • Example: "The beautiful scenery provided the artist with endless inspiration."

• Inspiration (Noun, Idea): A sudden brilliant or timely idea.
  • Example: "She had a flash of inspiration and solved the problem."

• Inspiration (Noun, Medical): The drawing in of breath; inhalation.
  • Example: "The doctor measured the patient's inspiration and expiration rates."

‍Note: Inspiration can be derived from a plethora of sources, including nature, people, or personal experiences. It is a profound force that can lead to creativity and innovative ideas.