rouse

play

verb \ˈrau̇z\

Definition of rouse

roused

;

rousing

transitive verb
1 archaic : to cause to break from cover
2a : to stir up : excite was roused to furyb : to arouse from or as if from sleep or repose : awaken
intransitive verb
1 : to become aroused : awaken
2 : to become stirred

rousement

play \ˈrau̇z-mənt\ noun

rouser

noun

See rouse defined for English-language learners

See rouse defined for kids

Examples of rouse in a Sentence

I've been unable to rouse her.
I was so tired I could barely rouse myself to prepare dinner.
These animals are dangerous when roused.
She was roused to anger by their indifference.

Origin and Etymology of rouse

Middle English, to shake the feathers

NEW!

First Known Use: 1531

See Words from the same year

rouse

noun

Definition of rouse

: an act or instance of rousing; especially : an excited stir

First Known Use of rouse

1764

rouse

noun

Definition of rouse

1 obsolete : drink, toast
2 archaic : carousal

Origin and Etymology of rouse

alteration (from misdivision of to drink carouse) of carouse

NEW!

First Known Use: circa 1593

See Words from the same year

ROUSE Defined for English Language Learners

rouse

play

verb

Definition of rouse for English Language Learners

: to wake (someone) from sleep
: to cause (someone who is tired or not interested) to become active
: to cause (an emotional response) in someone

ROUSE Defined for Kids

rouse

play

verb \ˈrau̇z\

Definition of rouse for Students

roused

;

rousing

1 : ¹awake 1 Lucy was such a light sleeper that stepping on a creaky floorboard … could easily rouse her. — Kevin Henkes, Olive's Ocean
2 : to stir up : excite The idea roused great interest.