Activation: meaning, definitions and examples

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activation

[ˌæktɪˈveɪʃən ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

computer software

The action of making something active or operative.

Synonyms

initiation, launch, start.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
activation	Used when something is being made active or started, often in technical or formal situations such as activating a device, software, or a process. The activation of the security system was successful. Activation of your account will take a few minutes.
initiation	Often used in formal contexts to talk about the beginning of a process or the admission of someone into a group or activity, sometimes with a ceremonial connotation. The initiation of the new members will take place next week. The initiation of the project requires approval from the board.
launch	Commonly used when starting an important event, campaign, project, or introducing a new product to the market. It often implies a planned and significant beginning. The company will launch the new product next month. They are planning a big launch event for the new app.
start	A general term suitable for any beginning or commencement of an action, event, or process. It is very versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. She decided to start her own business. The meeting will start at 10 AM.

Examples of usage

The activation of the new software was successful.
Please enter the activation code to unlock the full version.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

biology

The process of the initiation of a process or reaction.

Synonyms

initiation, stimulation, triggering.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
activation	Use when referring to the process of making something active or operative, often in technical or formal contexts. The activation of the security system was completed remotely The phone's activation process took a few minutes
stimulation	Ideal for discussing the encouragement or increase of activity or interest, often used in biological, psychological, or economic contexts. The new policy aims at the stimulation of economic growth Brain stimulation techniques are used to treat certain medical conditions
triggering	Used when indicating the cause or starting point of a reaction, emotion, or action, can have negative connotations especially in psychological or social contexts. The loud noise was triggering his anxiety The article was accused of triggering public outrage
initiation	Best suited for describing the beginning of an action, project, or process, particularly when it involves a sequence of steps or a ceremonial start. The initiation of the new project was marked by a team meeting Her initiation into the club involved a formal ceremony

Examples of usage

The activation of the immune system is crucial for fighting off infections.
Enzymes play a key role in the activation of various biochemical reactions.

^{Context #3 | Noun}

chemistry

The process of making a chemical reaction occur more rapidly.

Synonyms

acceleration, catalysis, initiation.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
activation	Used when something is being made active or operative, typically in a formal or technical sense. The activation of the alarm system is scheduled for tomorrow. The activation of the new software will help improve efficiency.
acceleration	Used in contexts where increasing speed or velocity is involved, often in scientific, technical, or automotive settings. The car's acceleration from 0 to 60 mph is impressive. The acceleration of technological advancements worries some people.
catalysis	Used primarily in chemistry to describe the process by which the rate of a chemical reaction is increased by a catalyst. The enzyme catalysis speeds up the reaction significantly. Understanding catalysis is crucial for developing new drugs.
initiation	Used when starting something new, often with a sense of a formal beginning or entry into a process or organization. The initiation of the new project will take place next week. Her initiation into the club was a grand affair.

Examples of usage

Catalysts are often used to assist in the activation of chemical reactions.
Temperature and pressure can affect the activation of certain reactions.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word 'activation' comes from the Latin word 'activus', meaning 'active', combined with the suffix '-tion', which signals a process.
It has been used since the early 20th century in scientific and technical fields to describe the process of causing something to start functioning.

Science

In chemistry, activation refers to the process of making a reaction occur more easily, often involving energy input.
Psychological activation involves stimulating brain activity and is crucial during tasks that require focus and decision-making.
In molecular biology, activation often describes how specific genes are turned on to produce proteins necessary for cell functions.

Technology

In software, activation denotes the process that allows a program to function fully after installation, often involving a license key.
Activation also refers to the process in smartphones and other devices where users enable functions or services for the first time.

Pop Culture

The phrase 'activation energy' became popularized outside of science in various media, often referenced in movies or shows about science and discovery.
In video games, 'activation' often refers to triggering abilities or events, hinting at the power of choice in gameplay.

Psychology

In behavioral psychology, activation refers to the process of triggering certain behaviors or responses through stimuli.
Motivation theories often discuss activation as the initial spark needed to drive individuals towards achieving goals or tasks.

Translations

Translations of the word "activation" in other languages:

🇵🇹 ativação

🇮🇳 सक्रियण

🇩🇪 Aktivierung

🇮🇩 aktivasi

🇺🇦 активація

🇵🇱 aktywacja

🇯🇵 アクティベーション

🇫🇷 activation

🇪🇸 activación

🇹🇷 aktivasyon

🇰🇷 활성화

🇸🇦 تفعيل

🇨🇿 aktivace

🇸🇰 aktivácia

🇨🇳 激活

🇸🇮 aktivacija

🇮🇸 virkjun

🇰🇿 активация

🇬🇪 აქტივაცია

🇦🇿 aktivasiya

🇲🇽 activación

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #4,613, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.

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4610 giant
4611 rental
4612 useless
4613 activation
4614 locally
4615 appealed
4616 insure
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