\ ˈrau̇z 
\
\roused; rousing
Definition of rouse
(Entry 1 of 3)
rouse
noun (1)Definition of rouse (Entry 2 of 3)
: an act or instance of rousing especially : an excited stir
rouse
noun (2)Keep scrolling for more
Other Words from rouse
Verb
rousement \ ˈrau̇z-mənt \ noun
\ nounrouser noun
Examples of rouse in a Sentence
Verb
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.
See More
Keep scrolling for more
Keep scrolling for more
More Definitions for rouse
rouse
verbEnglish Language Learners Definition of rouse
somewhat formal
: to wake (someone) from sleep
: to cause (someone who is tired or not interested) to become active
: to cause (an emotional response) in someone
See the full definition for rouse in the English Language Learners Dictionary
rouse
verb\ ˈrau̇z \
\roused; rousing
Kids Definition of rouse
1 : awake entry 1 sense 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.
Keep scrolling for more
Comments on rouse
What made you want to look up rouse? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).
Test Your Vocabulary
Slippery Words Quiz—Changing with the Times
- What is an earlier meaning of nice?
Test your vocabulary with our 10-question quiz!
TAKE THE QUIZ
Spell words. Make bears.
TAKE THE QUIZLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridgedWords at Play
Ask the Editors
Word Games
- Slippery Words Quiz—Changing with the Times
Do you know these earlier meanings of words?
Take the quiz - Words of Snow and Ice Quiz
A selection of words from the chillier parts of t...
Take the quiz - How Strong Is Your Vocabulary?
Test your vocabulary with our 10-question quiz!
Take the quiz - Play the game
Share rouse
Time Traveler for rouse
The first known use of rouse was in 1531
See more words from the same year