Arouse

/əˈraʊz/

Meaning & Definition

verb

to stimulate or bring about a feeling or reaction

The speech was designed to arouse enthusiasm among the audience.

to awaken or provoke from a state of inactivity

The news of the impending storm aroused concern in the community.

to cause someone to become active or engaged

She hoped to arouse his interest in environmental issues.

to bring a feeling into action; to kindle

The film was able to arouse a sense of nostalgia in the viewers.

to awaken from sleep; to rouse

Please do not arouse the sleeping baby.

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

arouse suspicion

to cause someone to be suspicious.

arouse interest

to generate or evoke interest in something.

arouse attention

to attract someone's attention.

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.

to get someone excited sexually

His flirting really aroused her interest.

to provoke a strong emotional reaction

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