Activator: meaning, definitions and examples

Generally used in a scientific or technical context. It refers to a substance or device that starts a process or increases the activity of another substance or device.

• The enzyme acts as an activator in the chemical reaction.
• The software update includes a new activator for the program's security features.

Commonly used in scientific contexts to describe a substance that speeds up a chemical reaction without being consumed. It can also be used metaphorically in social, economic, or other contexts to describe something that causes change or action without being affected itself.

• The scientist added a catalyst to the reaction to produce the compound faster.
• The economic reforms served as a catalyst for growth in the region.

Often used in contexts involving speed or progress, particularly in technology, business, and vehicles. It denotes something that increases speed or hastens development.

• He stepped on the accelerator to merge onto the highway.
• The business accelerator helped startups grow quickly by providing mentorship and resources.

Primarily used in medical and health contexts to describe a substance that raises levels of physiological or nervous activity in the body. It often has a negative connotation when referring to substances that can be addictive.

• Caffeine is a common stimulant found in coffee and tea.
• Doctors warned against the overuse of stimulants because of potential health risks.

An activator is suitable for use when referring to something that initiates or starts a process, often in a biological or chemical context.

• The enzyme acts as an activator in the metabolic pathway
• This activator helps speed up the chemical reaction

Stimulator is often used to describe something that raises activity, interest, or energy levels, and is commonly found in medical, fitness, and economic contexts.

• The doctor recommended a neural stimulator to help manage the patient's chronic pain
• Exercise acts as a natural stimulator for endorphin production

Enhancer is best used to describe something that improves or amplifies the performance or effect of another thing, often in contexts related to technology, beauty, or sensory experiences.

• This software enhancer boosts the graphics performance of your computer
• The flavor enhancer made the dish taste amazing

Used in chemistry and biology to describe a substance that makes a chemical reaction or process start or speed up.

• The enzyme acts as an activator in the biochemical reaction

Used to describe something that causes an immediate reaction or start of an event, often with a negative or sudden connotation.

• The loud noise was the trigger for his anxiety attack

Used to describe a person or thing that begins a process, event, or change. Often has a positive connotation.

• He was the initiator of the new project