WordGarden.ioinitiator
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /ɪnˈɪʃɪˌeɪtə/
US
- /ˌɪnɪˈʃieɪtər/
Meanings
Noun
a person or thing that starts something
a substance that starts a chemical reaction
a device or program that begins a technical operation or connection
Beyond the definition
Imagine a game of tag. Someone has to be the first to chase, right? That person is the initiator—the one who starts things off! But the word is not just for games. It can refer to anyone who begins a process, a conversation, or even an argument. Think of it as the spark that sets something in motion. In chemistry, an initiator is a substance used to start a chemical reaction, such as polymerization. So, whether it's a playful chase or a complex scientific process, the initiator is the one that gets it going.
The word initiator refers to a person or thing that takes the first step in starting something—a process, action, event, or even a relationship. It suggests taking action and being responsible for getting something new started.
You might describe a diplomat as an initiator of peace talks, meaning they were the one who proposed and began the negotiations. Or perhaps a student is an initiator of a school club—they had the idea and took the steps to make it happen. In business, an initiator could be someone who proposes a new project or strategy.
The context often dictates the nuance. Sometimes "initiator" carries a positive connotation, suggesting leadership and drive. Other times, especially when discussing conflict, it can imply responsibility for starting something negative—as in, "He was the initiator of the fight."
In scientific contexts, particularly in chemistry and polymer science, an initiator is a substance that starts a chemical reaction. Unlike a catalyst, which remains unchanged, an initiator is often used up as it provides the initial energy or chemical species needed to start a reaction chain.
So, whether you're talking about starting a conversation, launching a project, or kickstarting a chemical reaction, the initiator is always the one who takes the first step and sets things in motion.
Examples
- 1
School group
Maya was the initiator of the new study group at school.
- 2
Family chat
In our family chat, my brother is usually the initiator, sending the first message on birthdays and holidays.
- 3
Networking
I keep a few conversation initiators ready for networking events, such as asking people what they are working on.
- Phraseconversation initiators
questions or remarks used to start a conversation
- 4
Investigation
Investigators are still trying to identify the initiator of the attack.
See also
Similar
- originator
- starter
- prime mover
Shades of meaning
Contrast
Used with (collocations)
- initiator of change
- project initiator
- key initiator
Word family
Explore
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- initiatornoun