inspiration

noun

Definition of inspirationnext
1
as in motivation
something that arouses action or activity She traveled cross-country seeking inspiration for her next book. He credits his mother as his inspiration for becoming a social worker.

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2
as in creativity
the ability to form mental images of things that either are not physically present or have never been conceived or created by others They were a group of young artists filled with inspiration.

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3
as in uplift
a feeling of ease from grief or trouble The return of summer brought with it a new sense of inspiration.

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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 inspiration The group’s work is exemplified by its annual High Artistry collection, which draws inspiration from a different place or idea each year. — Justin Fenner, Robb Report, 17 Oct. 2026 Sienna Miller provides inspiration for those who strive to look put together even when just running to the grocery store or post office. — Erin Wisti, Footwear News, 17 Oct. 2026 Strickland praised the Canadian trucker convoy as an inspiration to Americans for standing up for their rights and exercising their freedom to protest. — ABC News, 17 Oct. 2026 Mana said the Serbian inventor and futurist is an inspiration of his. — Catherine Odom, Miami Herald, 17 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for inspiration
Recent Examples of Synonyms for inspiration
  1. motivation
  2. creativity
  3. uplift
  4. encouragement
  5. imagination
  6. comfort
  7. impetus
  8. relief
Noun
  • Rational motivations like eco-consciousness, economic pragmatism, and technophilia inform EV purchases.
    — Peter Gaston, Time, 15 Oct. 2026
  • Cardellini was also intrigued by the chance to develop Pamela’s unique motivation throughout the series.
    — William Earl, Variety, 15 Oct. 2026
Definition of motivation
Noun
  • What readers are saying The comments reflect a wide appreciation for walking as a beneficial activity for creativity, problem-solving, and mental clarity.
    — Richard Sima, Washington Post, 18 Oct. 2026
  • The safe and predictable format and approach to creativity that was needed to broaden appeal to advertisers.
    — William Daddi, Forbes.com, 16 Oct. 2026
Definition of creativity
Noun
  • Given that this uplift comes from the algorithm not weighing GPU performance as heavily, the underlying native frame rate should be higher, reducing the more typical artifacts of frame generation.
    — Jon Martindale, PC Magazine, 14 Oct. 2026
  • The analysts see initial migrations to the platform averaging a 40% annual recurring revenue uplift.
    — Jim Cramer, CNBC, 9 Oct. 2026
Definition of uplift
Noun
  • Jonah himself is remaining positive while keeping his spirits up thanks to the love, support and encouragement of his family, friends and all those doctors and nurses who care so much for him.
    — Patrick Snell, CNN Money, 17 Oct. 2026
  • After encouragement from the coaches, Koerber improved his personal best by three minutes at his next race, Brown said.
    — Donald Fountain, CBS News, 16 Oct. 2026
Definition of encouragement
Noun
  • With memory comes the intertwining of reflection and imagination.
    — Emily Maskell, IndieWire, 13 Oct. 2026
  • His musical imagination was shaped not only by metal and punk, but by manga, videogames, professional wrestling, and the examples of Korn and Linkin Park.
    — Steve Appleford, SPIN, 12 Oct. 2026
Definition of imagination
Noun
  • Plans also call for more natural light, additional green space and a new lobby aimed at improving comfort for patients and families.
    — Neil Nakahodo, Kansas City Star, 18 Oct. 2026
  • The protests being lodged against that decision provide some comfort, and Louise would have been grateful for them.
    — Chicago Tribune, Chicago Tribune, 18 Oct. 2026
Definition of comfort
Noun
  • The impetus for Whalefall came from a viral video in which a kayaker ended up in the mouth of a whale.
    — Dessi Gomez, Deadline, 16 Oct. 2026
  • So, if your travels find you in Milan before 2027 kicks off, consider this your impetus to go ahead and book that room.
    — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 9 Oct. 2026
Definition of impetus
Noun
  • The news outlets asked Kelly to grant them temporary relief and restore their journalists' access to the White House, which the judge agreed to do late last month.
    — Melissa Quinn, CBS News, 14 Oct. 2026
  • Applications to refinance a home loan have been hit hardest by higher rates, as a shrinking pool of borrowers can now find much relief.
    — Diana Olick, CNBC, 14 Oct. 2026
Definition of relief

Browse Nearby Words

inspects
inspiration
inspirational
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Cite this Entry

“Inspiration.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/inspiration. Accessed 21 Oct. 2026.

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