activate

[ˈæktɪveɪt]

activate Definition

  • 1to make something start working or operating
  • 2to cause a chemical or biological process to begin
  • 3to become active or cause someone or something to become active

Using activate: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "activate" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    Please activate your account by clicking on the link in the email.

  • Example

    The alarm will activate if anyone tries to break in.

  • Example

    The enzyme activates the chemical reaction.

  • Example

    The coach activated the team with a motivational speech.

  • Example

    The new policy will activate next month.

activate Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for activate

Antonyms for activate

Phrases with activate

  • to turn on or start a machine or electronic device

    Example

    Please activate the security system before leaving the house.

  • to put a plan into action or start implementing it

    Example

    We need to activate our emergency plan in case of a natural disaster.

  • to cause a muscle to contract or become tense

    Example

    The physical therapist showed me how to activate my core muscles during exercise.

Origins of activate

from Latin 'activatus', past participle of 'activare', from 'activus' meaning 'active'

📌

Summary: activate in Brief

To 'activate' [ˈæktɪveɪt] means to start or cause something to start working or operating, such as activating a device or activating a plan. It can also refer to causing a chemical or biological process to begin, or becoming active oneself or causing someone or something to become active. Examples include activating an account, activating a muscle, and activating a team with a motivational speech.

How do native speakers use this expression?