VocabDictionary

agitate

/ˈædʒ.ɪ.teɪt/intermediate Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.verb

To make someone troubled, nervous, or emotionally disturbed.

Example Sentences:
  • The sudden noise seemed to agitate the horse.
  • Discussing politics always tends to agitate him.
2.verb

To campaign or urge publicly for political or social change.

Example Sentences:
  • Workers began to agitate for higher wages and better conditions.
  • Activists gathered outside the parliament to agitate for reform.
3.verb

To stir or shake a liquid briskly.

Example Sentences:
  • Be sure to agitate the mixture before applying it to the surface.
  • The washing machine uses a central post to agitate the clothes in soapy water.
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

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

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Derived from the Latin 'agitatus', past participle of 'agitare', meaning 'to move to and fro, to drive, to excite, to discuss', which is a frequentative form of 'agere' (to drive, do, lead).

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of 'agent' stirring up trouble or 'a-gate' that shakes violently in the wind.

Frequently Asked Questions About “agitate

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

In English, agitate (verb) is defined as: “To make someone troubled, nervous, or emotionally disturbed.”.

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

The sudden noise seemed to agitate the horse.

3. What are English synonyms of “agitate”?

Common synonyms include:disturb,fluster,campaign,stir,trouble

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

Derived from the Latin 'agitatus', past participle of 'agitare', meaning 'to move to and fro, to drive, to excite, to discuss', which is a frequentative form of 'agere' (to drive, do, lead).