activate Definition

activate
verb activated, activating

1. To make something start working or go into operation.

Thesaurus: start, set in motion, spark, galvanize, initiate, propel, prompt, stimulate, initiate, arouse, begin, catalyse, invigorate, renew.
2. To increase the energy of something.
3. To make (a material) radioactive.
4. To increase the speed of or to cause (a chemical reaction).
5. To increase the capacity of (carbon or charcoal) to absorb impurities, especially gases.
6. To increase the biological activity of (sewage) by treatment with air and bacteria.

Derivative: activation
noun

Derivative: activator
noun

Etymology: 17c: active + -ate 1.