excite

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb excite contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of excite are pique, provoke, quicken, and stimulate. While all these words mean "to arouse as if by pricking," excite implies a stirring up or moving profoundly.

news that excited anger and frustration

When might pique be a better fit than excite?

Although the words pique and excite have much in common, pique suggests stimulating by mild irritation or challenge.

that remark piqued my interest

Where would provoke be a reasonable alternative to excite?

The meanings of provoke and excite largely overlap; however, provoke directs attention to the response called forth.

my stories usually provoke laughter

In what contexts can quicken take the place of excite?

The synonyms quicken and excite are sometimes interchangeable, but quicken implies beneficially stimulating and making active or lively.

the high salary quickened her desire to have the job

When is stimulate a more appropriate choice than excite?

The words stimulate and excite are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, stimulate suggests a rousing out of lethargy, quiescence, or indifference.

stimulating conversation

Example Sentences

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 excite Volunteering also came up as a great way of continuing to engage with people and ideas while learning what excites you in this new phase of life. R. Eric Thomas, Chicago Tribune, 18 Mar. 2025 No matter who ends up starting at quarterback next season, Vikings fans should be excited for 2025. Mark Davis, Newsweek, 14 Mar. 2025 Some might be excited, others spooked, about the return of peplum. Kaitlyn Yarborough, Southern Living, 14 Mar. 2025 Their pedigrees and abilities at least get players like Slayton excited, though. Pat Leonard, New York Daily News, 13 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for excite
Recent Examples of Synonyms for excite
Verb
  • So, going to Netflix was a huge challenge, and that was also thrilling.
    Lacey Rose, The Hollywood Reporter, 19 Mar. 2025
  • The experience of being in a fresh environment was thrilling.
    Rebecca Mead, The New Yorker, 17 Mar. 2025
Verb
  • Perhaps no pop song of the 2010s provoked so much debate — even from sympathetic listeners.
    Kristen S. Hé, Vulture, 19 Mar. 2025
  • The comments provoked a public spat on X between the tech billionaire and several current and retired astronauts.
    NBC News, NBC News, 19 Mar. 2025
Verb
  • Visit the community booths to learn about sustainable actions such as electrifying your home and starting a compost, and enjoy live entertainment at the amphitheater in the redwood grove.
    Anne Gelhaus, The Mercury News, 16 Mar. 2025
  • The son of Hall of Famer Deion Sanders, who once electrified Cowboys fans as a star cornerback, Shedeur offers accuracy, toughness, and natural timing, though his solid arm talent and average athleticism raise some questions.
    Mark Davis, Newsweek, 16 Mar. 2025
Verb
  • On April 5, disenfranchised Americans are being encouraged to protest the Trump administration's policies as part of a national movement in myriad cities, hosted by a group of older Americans called Third Act.
    Paul Du Quenoy, MSNBC Newsweek, 27 Mar. 2025
  • But rather than a breakdown in the constitutional order, this jostling fulfills the Framers’ design for the separation of powers, which encourages conflict between the branches of government.
    Robert J. Delahunty, National Review, 26 Mar. 2025
Verb
  • Make Time for Tea Next door, Draper Blooms Tea Garden delights with a formal tea service that features scrumptious finger sandwiches, vanilla scones, seasonal jams, and bite-size sweets, like brownies and breads.
    Erin Gifford, Southern Living, 22 Mar. 2025
  • Gentle Great Dane Meeting New Baby Brother By Alyce Collins Life and Trends Reporter Newsweek Is A Trust Project Member news article 0 A toddler's adorable bond with his Great Dane companion has delighted the internet, showing that every boy needs a four-legged friend.
    Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 21 Mar. 2025
Verb
  • Enhance Elasticity Enhances elasticity by deeply nourishing the skin and stimulating collagen production, which helps improve firmness and resilience.
    Sohaib Imtiaz, Verywell Health, 21 Mar. 2025
  • In short, the PFD effectively stimulates consumer spending, supports jobs and businesses, and contributes to economic stability in Alaska.
    Shahar Ziv, Forbes, 19 Mar. 2025
Verb
  • The styles are inspired by the Art Deco period, as well as the American Southwest, which can be seen in the bold designs that veer on modernity while still being classic.
    Brett F. Braley-Palko, Forbes.com, 28 Mar. 2025
  • Mannion, who is also a PNW alumna, hoped her photos and story would inspire other young women.
    Maya Wilkins, Chicago Tribune, 28 Mar. 2025
Verb
  • Life’s inevitable uncertainties instantly arouse your sympathetic nervous system (fight-or-flight or stress response).
    Bryan Robinson, Forbes, 7 Mar. 2025
  • Johanna’s worldly bearing and otherworldly beauty; the unbearable stirrings of jealousy aroused when her teacher bonds with other students; the deeper bond that forms when Johanne impulsively pays a visit to Johanna’s apartment.
    Justin Chang, The New Yorker, 27 Feb. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Excite.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/excite. Accessed 1 Apr. 2025.

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