inspiration

[ in-spuh-rey-shuhn ]

noun

1. an inspiring or animating action or influence:

   I cannot write poetry without inspiration.

   Synonyms: incitement, stimulus

2. something inspired, as an idea.
3. a result of inspired activity.
4. a thing or person that inspires.
5. Theology.
   1. a divine influence directly and immediately exerted upon the mind or soul.
   2. the divine quality of the writings or words of a person so influenced.
6. the drawing of air into the lungs; inhalation.
7. the act of inspiring; quality or state of being inspired.

inspiration

/ ˌɪnspɪˈreɪʃən /

noun

1. stimulation or arousal of the mind, feelings, etc, to special or unusual activity or creativity
2. the state or quality of being so stimulated or aroused
3. someone or something that causes this state
4. an idea or action resulting from such a state
5. the act or process of inhaling; breathing in

inspiration

/ ĭn′spə-rā′shən /

1. See inhalation

Other Words From

• rein·spi·ration noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of inspiration¹

First recorded in 1275–1325; Middle English inspiracio(u)n, from Late Latin inspīrātiōn-, stem of inspīrātiō literally “a breathing in,” from inspīrāt(us) “breathed in” (past participle of inspīrāre; inspire ) + -iō -ion

Example Sentences

It was created by children’s book author Zachariah OHora, who says the inspiration came from watching his own children and their interactions with their peers.

From Los Angeles Times

But his enthusiasm is infectious, and it is clear how much inspiration he draws from his fellow coaches.

From BBC

He said these were to: "Preserve intact his unique collection, to keep every single piece on public display together, and to ensure the collection would remain an inspiration and education for future generations."

From BBC

Hart has taken inspiration from fellow fifth-round pick and converted wide receiver Richard Sherman, a standout with the Seattle Seahawks..

From Los Angeles Times

The feature was introduced to iPhones on the iOS 11 update in 2017, drawing inspiration from Facebook’s “On This Day” feature, which generates flashbacks to posts from previous years.

From Slate

Related Words

• encouragement
• enthusiasm
• genius
• incentive
• influence
• insight
• motivation
• revelation
• vision