INSPIRES Synonyms: 109 Similar and Opposite Words

inspires

verb

present tense third-person singular of inspire

as in encourages

to fill with courage or strength of purpose the rousing campaign speech inspired everyone to get out the vote

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as in elicits

to draw out (something hidden, latent, or reserved) what inspired that comment?

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in educates

to provide (someone) with moral or spiritual understanding great works of visual art can inspire us in ways that the written word often cannot

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Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of inspires Eating it inspires an appreciation for the seamless integration of Mexican and Middle Eastern influences, melding to a state of emphatic brilliance in each bite. — The Bon Appétit Staff, Bon Appetit Magazine, 24 Aug. 2026 This is one of the BEST ways to recreate the communal devotion that the Premier League inspires. — Matt Piper, New York Times, 22 Aug. 2026 From elevated cocktails to unforgettable social occasions, Tanqueray inspires people to embrace style, confidence and moments that are nothing short of showstopping. — Forbes.com, 21 Aug. 2026 This could be a change of scenery or perhaps a new mindset that inspires new visions and opportunities for the future. — Valerie Mesa, PEOPLE, 20 Aug. 2026 The angst Line Sheet inspires is part of the appeal for its readers. — Aidan McLaughlin, Vanity Fair, 19 Aug. 2026 That sentiment inspires Sony Vizha – a celebration of Tamil culture, deeply rooted in emotion and imagined for a wider world. — Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 15 Aug. 2026 Teaming with Eva Byrne for the book’s illustrations, Andrews and Hamilton hope their story inspires young readers to find their voice. — Lexy Perez, HollywoodReporter, 11 Aug. 2026 In an interview with NPR, Padeu explained his art — and what inspires him. — Robbie Griffiths, NPR, 9 Aug. 2026

Recent Examples of Synonyms for inspires

Verb

There is an agency in charge of enforcing the rules with the objective of putting guardrails around a spending spree exacerbated by a transfer portal that encourages players to seek better offers from different schools.

— ABC News, ABC News, 19 Aug. 2026
Painting outdoors offers a slower, more immersive experience that encourages observation, patience, and connection with nature.

— George Nelson, ARTnews.com, 19 Aug. 2026

Definition of encourages

Verb

Researchers say the practice elicits a stronger response from the parasympathetic nervous system, the network of nerves that helps the body relax after stress.

— Hanna Wickes, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 6 Aug. 2026
Bedward elicits commentary from latter-day scholars, historians, and Vodou priests.

— Dennis Harvey, Variety, 31 July 2026

Definition of elicits

Verb

For her, a glimpse of a butterfly is a sign that evokes her daughter Penny, who wore a little butterfly necklace.

— Norah O'Donnell, CBS News, 19 Aug. 2026
Capital Flight Begins At Home Capital flight usually evokes money leaving a country ahead of devaluation, confiscation, or political disorder.

— Dave Birnbaum, Forbes.com, 18 Aug. 2026

Definition of evokes

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inspires

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“Inspires.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/inspires. Accessed 26 Aug. 2026.

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Synonyms of inspires

verb

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