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activate

verb

/ˈæk təˌveɪt/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of activate

To initiate, start, or set in motion a process, system, device, or function.
"The scientist added a catalyst to activate the chemical reaction in the lab."

Detailed meaning of activate

When something is activated, it is put into an active or operational state from a state of rest, dormancy, or inactivity. Activation involves triggering or enabling the necessary mechanisms, controls, or components to initiate a desired action or response. It can apply to various contexts, such as technology, machinery, systems, biological processes, or even personal behaviors. Activating something often requires an intentional or deliberate action, such as pressing a button, flipping a switch, or following specific instructions. It implies the transformation from a dormant or passive state to an active or functional state, allowing the intended purpose or function to be realized. Activation can lead to the release of energy, the initiation of a sequence of events, or the engagement of a particular system, bringing it to life or making it operational.

Example sentences containing activate

1. Press the button to activate the alarm system.
2. She will activate the security protocol in case of intrusion.
3. The remote control can activate the garage door.
4. It's essential to activate the emergency brake in a crisis.
5. To start the machine, activate the power switch.
6. They plan to activate the new software next week.

History and etymology of activate

The verb 'activate' has its etymological origins in Latin and can be traced back to the Latin word 'activare.' This Latin term is a derivative of 'actus,' meaning 'a doing' or 'an action.' 'Activare' essentially meant 'to make something active' or 'to set in motion.' When it entered English, 'activate' retained this fundamental sense, describing the action of initiating, starting, or setting in motion a process, system, device, or function. Its etymology reflects the idea of instigating or causing something to become active or operational, highlighting the role of deliberate action in making things function or come to life.

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Further usage examples of activate

1. Activate the camera by pressing the shutter button.
2. Please activate your account by clicking the link.
3. The code will activate the secret door mechanism.
4. Activating the sprinkler system saved the garden.
5. You need to activate the subscription to access the content.
6. The virus can activate when you click on the link.
7. She used her fingerprint to activate the phone.
8. The launch sequence will activate in T-minus 10 seconds.
9. Activating the heating system warms up the house.
10. They must activate the backup generator during outages.
11. To begin the experiment, activate the laser beam.
12. Activating the app requires a valid username and password.
13. He forgot to activate the car's GPS navigation.
14. The app will activate the reminder notifications.
15. She pressed the power button to activate the computer and start her work.
16. The athlete did warm-up exercises to activate their muscles before the race.
17. The manager activated the security alarm before leaving the office for the night.
18. He activated the sprinkler system to water the garden.
19. The student used the app to activate the remote control and operate the smart devices in the room.
20. The dancer stretched her body to activate her flexibility before the performance.
21. The coach shouted instructions to activate the team's focus and intensity during the game.
22. The doctor used an electric shock to activate the patient's heart after cardiac arrest.
23. The participant scanned the QR code to activate the digital ticket for the event.
24. The hiker used a match to activate the camping stove and start cooking.
25. The teacher used interactive activities to activate the students' prior knowledge and engage them in the lesson.