VocabDictionary

inspiration

/ˌɪn.spəˈreɪ.ʃən/intermediate Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.noun

The process of being mentally stimulated to do or feel something, especially to engage in a creative activity.

Example Sentences:
  • The quiet countryside provided the painter with endless inspiration for her landscapes.
  • She drew inspiration from traditional folk tales to write her new novel.
2.noun

A sudden brilliant, creative, or timely idea.

Example Sentences:
  • It was a sudden flash of inspiration that helped him solve the engineering problem.
  • The new architectural design was a stroke of pure inspiration.
3.noun

A person, object, or achievement that motivates or inspires others.

Example Sentences:
  • Her courage and persistence serve as an inspiration to young athletes everywhere.
  • His teacher was the primary inspiration behind his choice to study chemistry.
4.noun

The act of breathing air in; inhalation.

Example Sentences:
  • Deep inspiration fills the lungs with oxygen during aerobic exercises.
  • The physician measured the patient's chest expansion during full inspiration.
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “inspiration”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Originating from the Late Latin 'inspiratio' and Latin 'inspirare' ('to breathe into'), the word combined 'in-' (into) and 'spirare' (to breathe). It originally referred to a divine influence imparted directly into the human mind or soul before evolving to describe general creative and intellectual stimulation.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of 'IN-SPIRIT-ation': putting spirit or fresh air into your mind to spark creative energy.

Frequently Asked Questions About “inspiration

1. What is the meaning of “inspiration” in English?

In English, inspiration (noun) is defined as: “The process of being mentally stimulated to do or feel something, especially to engage in a creative activity.”.

2. How do you use “inspiration” in a sentence?

The quiet countryside provided the painter with endless inspiration for her landscapes.

3. What are English synonyms of “inspiration”?

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “inspiration”?

Originating from the Late Latin 'inspiratio' and Latin 'inspirare' ('to breathe into'), the word combined 'in-' (into) and 'spirare' (to breathe). It originally referred to a divine influence imparted directly into the human mind or soul before evolving to describe general creative and intellectual stimulation.