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instigator

/ˈɪnstɪgeɪɾər/
/ˈɪnstɪgeɪtə/
IPA guide

Other forms: instigators

Definitions of instigator
  1. noun
    someone who deliberately foments trouble
    “she was the instigator of their quarrel”
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    types:
    ringleader
    a person who leads (especially in illicit activities)
    type of:
    bad hat, mischief-maker, trouble maker, troublemaker, troubler
    someone who deliberately stirs up trouble
  2. noun
    a person who initiates a course of action
    synonyms: initiator
    see moresee less
    types:
    aggressor
    a confident assertive person who acts as instigator
    type of:
    leader
    a person who rules or guides or inspires others
Pronunciation
US
/ˈɪnstɪgeɪɾər/
UK
/ˈɪnstɪgeɪtə/
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DISCLAIMER: These example sentences appear in various news sources and books to reflect the usage of the word ‘instigator'. Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Vocabulary.com or its editors. Send us feedback
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