agitate

/əˈɡɪteɪt/

Definitions

1. verb

to make someone or something angry or upset; to cause trouble or unrest

“The politician’s inflammatory speech was designed to agitate the public.”

2. verb

to shake or move something violently; to stir up or churn a liquid

“The stormy weather was agitating the river, causing it to overflow its banks.”

3. noun

a state of being upset or excited; a disturbance or unrest

“The agitate in the crowd was palpable as the news of the politician’s resignation spread.”

4. verb

to search for or investigate something thoroughly

“The police were agitating the area, searching for clues to the crime.”

5. verb

to make something more intense or active; to stimulate or provoke

“The new policy is intended to agitate the economy, encouraging growth and development.”

Synonyms

  • disturb
  • incandesce
  • incite
  • irritate
  • provokes

Antonyms

  • calm
  • compose
  • pacify
  • soothe
  • tranquilize