excitar
“excitar” means “to stimulate” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
to stimulate
Also: to stir up, to provoke
📝 In Action
El descubrimiento excitó la curiosidad de todos.
B1The discovery stimulated everyone's curiosity.
Demasiada cafeína puede excitar el sistema nervioso.
B2Too much caffeine can stimulate the nervous system.
Sus palabras solo sirvieron para excitar los ánimos de la multitud.
C1His words only served to stir up the crowd's spirits.
to arouse
Also: to turn on
📝 In Action
Se siente muy excitado cuando está con ella.
B1He feels very aroused when he is with her.
Esa ropa parece excitar a su pareja.
B2Those clothes seem to turn on his partner.
Subjunctive
Imperfect Subjunctive
Present Subjunctive
Indicative
Preterite
Imperfect
Present
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✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: excitar
Question 1 of 3
If you are very happy about a new job, how should you describe yourself?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Latin 'excitare', which meant 'to rouse', 'to summon forth', or 'to wake up'.
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'excitar' always sexual in Spanish?
Not strictly, but it is the primary association in casual conversation. In medical or formal contexts (like 'stimulating the economy'), it is neutral, but 'emocionar' or 'estimular' are safer for daily use.
What is the difference between 'excitante' and 'emocionante'?
'Emocionante' is used for an exciting movie, game, or news. 'Excitante' is used for something that physically stimulates you, like a strong cup of coffee or an attractive person.
Can I use 'excitado' for a child who is hyper?
It is better to use 'inquieto' (restless) or 'nervioso' (jittery/energetic). Using 'excitado' for a child can sound very wrong to native speakers.