Stimulate

Definition

Stimulate refers to the action of raising levels of physiological or nervous activity in the body or any biological system.

Parts of Speech

• Verb

Pronunciation

American English:

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈstɪmjəˌleɪt/
• Respelling: STIM-yuh-layt (with "STIM" as in "stimulus," "yuh" as a quick, soft sound like the 'u' in "cup," and "layt" as in "late")

British English:

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈstɪmjʊleɪt/
• Respelling: STIM-yuh-layt (similar to American English, with "STIM" as in "stimulus," "yuh" slightly rounded as in "put," and "layt" like in "late")

In both dialects, "stimulate" is pronounced with the primary stress on the first syllable, "STIM." The pronunciation is consistent across both American and British English, accurately reflecting the word's phonetic structure and emphasis.

Etymology

The word "stimulate" originates from the Latin verb "stimulare", which means to goad or urge on. This, in turn, is derived from the noun "stimulus" which means a poke or prod.

Derivatives

• Stimulation
• Stimulator
• Stimulative
• Stimulants
• Stimulated

Synonyms

• Excite
• Encourage
• Invigorate

Antonyms

• Deter
• Discourage
• Repress

Usage

"Stimulate" is a term often used in a physiological, economic, or intellectual context. In physiology, it refers to triggering or increasing activity in the body or part of it. Economically, it refers to efforts to increase economic activity. Intellectually, it may refer to provoking thought or interest.

Related Terms

• Stimulant
• Stimulus
• Stimulated emission

Detailed Definition

Verb

• Physiological Activation: To excite or invigorate (a person, for instance) to a higher level of feeling or activity.
• Example: The medicine can stimulate the nerves.

• Encouragement: To encourage something such as an activity or a process so that brain activity will begin, increase, or develop.
• Example: Government spending can stimulate economic growth.

• Provocation of Interest: To cause interest and excitement in (someone).
• Example: The teacher tried to stimulate the students by bringing visual aids to class.

• Promotion of Bodily Function: To excite (a nerve, gland, etc.) to its functional activity.
• Example: Stimulate the muscles to avoid atrophy.