English Reference
adjective

inspired

adj.
US /ˌɪnˈspaɪɝd/ UK /ɪnspˈaɪəd/ in·spired

  1. 01 B1 Intermediate

    feeling full of new ideas and the desire to do something great.

    filled with the urge or ability to do or feel something, especially to do something creative.

    Simple

    After watching the documentary about the artist, she felt inspired to start painting again.

    In context

    The young architect felt deeply inspired by the city's blend of brutalist concrete and lush green spaces.

  2. 02 B2 Upper Intermediate

    showing a lot of skill or a very clever idea.

    demonstrating exceptional quality, creativity, or brilliance as if resulting from a sudden flash of insight.

    Simple

    The chef made an inspired choice by adding a hint of lime to the soup.

    In context

    The director's inspired casting of a newcomer in the lead role transformed the production into a critical success.

  3. 03 C1 Advanced Formal Religion

    influenced by a god or a holy power.

    guided or influenced by a divine or supernatural power.

    Simple

    Many people believe that the ancient texts were inspired by God.

    In context

    The theologian argued that the scriptures were divinely inspired rather than being mere historical records.

The self-confessed NBA fanatic - inspired by LeBron James' live show by the same name in 2010, when the basketball star joined the Miami Heat - was attempting to own his narrative.

BBC News· 15 Aug 2026

The company's CEO Testsuya Nakayama told the BBC the design was inspired by freezer vending machines.

BBC News· 12 Aug 2026
This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Common
Updated