actuate
UK: ˈæktʃueɪt | US: ˈæktʃueɪt
vt. to put into action or motion; to activate
vt. to motivate or influence someone to act
vt. (technical) to operate a mechanism or device
The word "actuate" originates from the Latin actuatus, the past participle of actuare ("to put into motion"), derived from actus ("act, deed"). The root act- (meaning "do") is preserved in English words like "action" and "actor." The suffix -uate evolved from Latin -atus, a verb-forming suffix indicating causation. Over time, "actuate" came to mean "to set in motion" both literally (mechanical systems) and figuratively (motivating people).
The sensor will actuate the alarm if movement is detected.
His inspiring speech actuated the team to work harder.
This lever actuates the hydraulic press.
Fear of failure often actuates procrastination.
The software can actuate automated responses based on user input.