Instigator: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe a person or thing that incites or provokes an action, often with a negative connotation.

• The instigator of the fight was quickly identified by the police.
• She was seen as the instigator of the office gossip.

Used to describe a person or thing that begins a process or action, usually in a neutral or positive manner.

• He was the initiator of the new project at work.
• The initiator of the event was praised for her organizational skills.

Used to describe someone who deliberately annoys or stirs up others, often with a negative connotation.

• The provoker of the argument was asked to leave the room.
• He has a reputation as a provoker in heated debates.

Used to describe something or someone that causes change or action, typically in a positive context.

• Her speech was the catalyst for the charity's fundraising efforts.
• The new policy acted as a catalyst for economic growth.

An instigator is someone who initiates or provokes an action, usually referring to starting some kind of conflict or controversy.

• He was known as the instigator of the school protest
• The instigator of the office argument was finally identified

A troublemaker is a person who habitually causes difficulties or disturbances. It typically has a negative connotation and is often used informally to describe someone who is mischievous or disruptive.

• He's always been a troublemaker in class
• The new employee turned out to be quite the troublemaker

An aggressor is someone who attacks first or initiates hostility or violence. Generally used in contexts involving conflict and confrontations.

• In the altercation, he was clearly the aggressor
• The country's military was seen as the aggressor in the border conflict

An inciter is someone who encourages or stirs others to take action, often in a provocative or inflammatory manner. The term may have a negative connotation.

• She was accused of being an inciter of riots
• The speech acted as an inciter for the violent protests