Instigator

Pronunciation: /ˈɪnstəˌɡeɪtər/

Instigator (noun)

  1. A person who starts an argument, fight, or problem, often by encouraging others to act badly.
  2. A person or thing that begins an event or process, especially one that leads to change or action.
  3. A person who encourages illegal or violent actions, often in political or public disputes.

Examples

  • The instigator started the argument in the hallway.
  • The manager blamed the instigator for the conflict.