excite
UK: ɪkˈsaɪt | US: ɪkˈsaɪt
vt. to stir up strong feelings or reactions in someone
vt. to stimulate activity or energy in something (e.g., nerves, cells)
vt. to arouse interest or enthusiasm
The word "excite" originates from Latin excitare ("to call forth, awaken"), combining ex- (intensifying "outward action") and citare ("to rouse"). It entered Middle English via Old French exciter, retaining the core idea of provoking a response—whether emotional, physical, or intellectual. The morphemes logically align: ex (outward) + cite (stimulate), reflecting the word’s evolution from literal "calling out" to metaphorical "stirring up."
The concert’s energy excited the crowd.
Caffeine can excite the nervous system.
Her innovative ideas excited investors.
The children were excited about the field trip.
Bright colors tend to excite creative thinking.