Instigate is often used as a synonym of incite (as in "siblings instigating a fight"), but the two words differ slightly in their overall usage.

Instigator definition: a person or thing that provokes or incites an action or course: Plays to be performed at the festival focus on a theme of how youth can be the instigators of positive …

Under (1a) for one's heart to undertake an activity - as an instigator or agent - is to desire to do that activity without actually doing it.

Definition of instigator noun in Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more.

Jun 18, 2025 · Instigators are typically average Americans, quite often from a background that we would not consider a position of power. They are "housewives," students, small business …

The instigator of an event is the person who causes it to happen. He was accused of being the main instigator of the coup.

To initiate or bring about, often by inciting: instigate a public discussion of the issue; instigate...

5 days ago · Definitions of instigator noun someone who deliberately foments trouble “she was the instigator of their quarrel” synonyms: firebrand, inciter, instigant, provoker see more noun

Synonyms for INSTIGATOR: proponent, supporter, promoter, rebel, advocate, agitator, demonstrator, firebrand; Antonyms of INSTIGATOR: peacemaker, reconciler, uniter

An instigator is an individual who encourages, provokes, or initiates a conflict, disagreement, or course of action, often while trying to avoid becoming directly involved themselves.