American English

How to pronounce activate

verbB2Common word

AAKtuhvayt

/ˈæk.təˌveɪt̚/

3 syllables · Stress the first syllable.

To make a device, system, service, or feature start working, often by using a button, code, or command.

Meanings & examples

verb

To make a device, system, service, or feature start working, often by using a button, code, or command.

Please activate your new card online.

The technician activated the alarm.

Good to know

For a light or machine, turn on is usually more natural. Use activate especially for a card, account, feature, or system.

Common phrases & grammar

activate an account · activate a card · activate a feature · activate an alarm

activate + a/an/the + noun

activate + a/an/the + noun + with + a/an/the + noun

verb

To cause a process, reaction, or response to start or become active.

The drug activates the immune system.

The emergency caused the city to activate its response plan.

Common phrases & grammar

activate a response · activate the immune system · activate a process · activate emergency procedures

activate + a/an/the + noun