inspirational
Americanadjective
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imparting inspiration.
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under the influence of inspiration; inspired. inspired.
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of or relating to inspiration.
adjective
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of, relating to, or tending to arouse inspiration; inspiring
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resulting from inspiration; inspired
Other Word Forms
- inspirationally adverb
- pseudoinspirational adjective
- quasi-inspirational adjective
Etymology
Origin of inspirational
First recorded in 1830–40; inspiration + -al 1
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Glover has said he will take with him a Bible, his wedding rings and family heirlooms, along with a collection of inspirational quotations compiled by Apollo 9 astronaut Rusty Schweickart.
From BBC • Mar. 30, 2026
“Rufus wrote a few songs there. It’s super inspirational and moody.”
From MarketWatch • Mar. 17, 2026
"For more than 50 years, the bank has proudly showcased many inspirational historical figures who have helped shape national thought, innovation, leadership and values on its banknotes," the bank said.
From Barron's • Mar. 12, 2026
“If you must join a movement, make sure there’s dancing” from the half-spoken verses of “Are You Listening Yet?” is as inspirational as Mr. Styles gets, and there are no especially memorable lines.
From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 10, 2026
“I think an inspirational quote can get you through hard times.”
From "We Were Liars" by E. Lockhart
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.