rousing

adjective

rous·​ing ˈrau̇-ziŋ 

1

a

: giving rise to excitement : stirring

a rousing speech

b

: brisk, lively

… the good, old-fashioned custom of evening weddings with a rousing dance afterwards …

—Lucy Maud Montgomery

2

: exceptional, superlative

a rousing success

rousingly adverb

Synonyms of rousing

• breathtaking
• exciting
• thrilling
• interesting
• inspiring
• intriguing

Examples of rousing in a Sentence

She was met with a rousing reception.

a rousing rendition of our national anthem

Recent Examples on the Web

The band moved to one corner of the stage to deliver a rousing and euphoric version. —Daniel Dylan Wray, Pitchfork, 5 Nov. 2025

Meanwhile, Carter, a two-time Academy Award winner, had the honor of presenting this year’s Gold Fellowships to two recipients, Alina Simone and Marlén Viñayo, both of whom delivered rousing remarks. —Chris Gardner, HollywoodReporter, 5 Nov. 2025

The crowd responded with a rousing ovation. —Brad Schmitt, Nashville Tennessean, 5 Nov. 2025

Michael Kors stood immediately, leading a rousing standing ovation for Rucci. —Anika Reed, USA Today, 4 Nov. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1576, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Rhymes for rousing

• browsing
• housing
• rehousing
• arousing
• carousing
• espousing
• warehousing

Kids Definition

rousing

adjective

rous·​ing

ˈrau̇-ziŋ

1

: having the power to rouse one

sang a rousing hymn

a rousing speech

2

: very good : exceptional

a rousing business