instigate

/ɪnstɪˈɡeɪt/

Definitions

1. verb

to provoke or encourage someone to do something, especially something unpleasant or illegal

“The politician’s speech was accused of instigating violence among the crowd.”

2. noun

an act or instance of provoking or encouraging someone to do something

“The instigation of the riot was attributed to the inflammatory speech.”

Synonyms

  • incite
  • provoke
  • stimulate

Antonyms

  • deter
  • discourage