Meaning & Definition of word "Arouse"

Arouse

/əˈraʊz/

verb:

  • 1. to stimulate or bring about a feeling or reaction
    • Example: The speech was designed to arouse enthusiasm among the audience.
  • 2. to awaken or provoke from a state of inactivity
    • Example: The news of the impending storm aroused concern in the community.
  • 3. to cause someone to become active or engaged
    • Example: She hoped to arouse his interest in environmental issues.
  • 4. to bring a feeling into action; to kindle
    • Example: The film was able to arouse a sense of nostalgia in the viewers.
  • 5. to awaken from sleep; to rouse
    • Example: Please do not arouse the sleeping baby.

Etymology

Middle English 'arousen', from 'a-' + 'rouse'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

arouse suspicion:

to cause someone to be suspicious.

arouse interest:

to generate or evoke interest in something.

arouse attention:

to attract someone's attention.

Related Words

stir:

to move or awaken to action.

ignite:

to set in motion or instigate.

evoke:

to bring a feeling, memory, or image into the mind.

Slang Meanings of arouse

Meaning: to get someone excited sexually

Example Sentence: His flirting really aroused her interest.

Meaning: to provoke a strong emotional reaction

Example Sentence: Don’t say that; you’ll just arouse a lot of anger.