Inspirational
/ˌɪnspɪˈreɪʃənəl/
Definitions
Providing or capable of providing inspiration; encouraging or influencing someone to do something creative or positive.
/ˌɪnspɪˈreɪʃənəl/
Providing or characterized by inspiration or arousing inspiration.
The museum hosted an inspirational exhibit featuring works from local artists.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're feeling down, and then someone tells you a story that makes you feel like you can do anything! That story is inspirational. It’s like a spark that makes you want to be your best self and go after your dreams. Like a superhero’s origin story!
👶 For kids: Something that makes you feel excited and want to do something good. Like when your teacher tells you a great story, and you want to write your own story.
More Examples
Her journey to success was an inspirational story for young entrepreneurs.
The coach provided an inspirational message to the team before the big game.
How It's Used
"The speaker gave an inspirational talk about overcoming adversity."
"Her artwork had an inspirational quality that moved audiences deeply."
"An inspirational leader can motivate their team to achieve great things."
Idioms & expressions
Inspirational speaker
A person who gives speeches intended to motivate and encourage others.
"The conference featured several well-known inspirational speakers who shared their stories of overcoming challenges."
Inspirational quote
A short saying or phrase intended to motivate or encourage others.
"She always starts her day by reading an inspirational quote to stay positive."
From inspire + -ational. The verb 'inspire' comes from the Latin 'inspirare', meaning 'to breathe into', or 'to inflame'. The suffix '-ational' indicates a relating to or characterized by something.
The term 'inspirational' gained prominence in the 19th century, reflecting the Romantic emphasis on emotion and personal growth.
Memory tip
Imagine a light bulb going off in your head. 'Inspirational' things make you think, create, and feel motivated, like a light bulb shining brightly.