INSPIREs

Inspires is the third-person singular present tense form of the verb inspire. It denotes the act of causing inspiration in someone or something, such as prompting creative energy, motivation, or awe. In a sentence, the subject performs the action of inspiring.

Etymology and usage: The verb derives from Old French inspirer, from Latin inspirare “to breathe into,” from in- “into” + spirare “to breathe.” In English, inspire encompasses giving life to ideas, motivating actions, or elevating mood. The form inspires is used with singular subjects, as in “Her courage inspires others.”

Contexts and nuance: Inspires appears across domains such as leadership, education, art, and science. In literary criticism, works that inspire readers may provoke reflection or action. In rhetoric or marketing, messages aim to inspire audiences, while maintaining honesty and ethical standards. The concept is closely linked to inspiration in general.

Related forms and usage notes: Related terms include inspired (past participle), inspiring (present participle), inspiration (noun), and inspirational (adjective). While individuals may discuss what inspires them, inspires remains a grammatical form tied to its subject and tense.

See also: inspire, inspiration, inspirational.