Activated
/ˈækt.ɪ.veɪ.tənd/
verbIntermediateVery CommonTechnology
Meaning
Question
Definitions
1
cause (a device or system) to start operating
/ˈækt.ɪ.veɪ.t/
verbneutralIntermediate
Technology
make (something) function or begin to function
The security system was activated when she entered the building.
More Examples
2
The new software will activate once you restart your computer.
How It's Used
General
"The fire alarm was activated when smoke was detected."
From Latin 'activus' and French 'activé', both meaning 'active'.
Historically, 'activate' was used in scientific and military contexts.
Memory tip
Think of an 'activated' alarm as something that's working and alerting you.
Practice
Base: activate
aktivatedaktivateddactivatedd
Usage
70%Spoken
30%Written