1fill (someone) with the urge or ability to do or feel something, especially to do something creative:his philosophy inspired a later generation of environmentalists [with object and infinitive]:his passion for literature inspired him to begin writing
create (a feeling, especially a positive one) in a person:their past record does not inspire confidence
(inspire someone with) animate someone with (a feeling):he inspired his students with a vision of freedom
give rise to:the film was successful enough to inspire a sequel
2breathe in (air); inhale:they can expand their lungs and inspire enough gas to satisfy oxygen requirements
