stirring

1 of 2

adjective

stir·​ring ˈstər-iŋ How to pronounce stirring (audio)
Synonyms of stirringnext
1
2
: rousing, inspiring
a stirring speech

stirring

2 of 2

noun

: a beginning of motion or activity : movement
often used in plural
the first stirrings of revolution

Examples of stirring in a Sentence

Adjective a stirring rendition of the national anthem the message of brotherhood in Martin Luther King's stirring “I Have a Dream” speech still resonates today Noun I thought I detected a slight stirring of the leaves, and yet there wasn't a breath of wind.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Adjective
Infinite Illumination is a triumph of melodic, soul-stirring, profoundly heavy metal. Brad Sanders, Pitchfork, 14 Apr. 2026 But at least in this production, Ehrenreich's Max is the stirring center. Shania Russell, Entertainment Weekly, 7 Apr. 2026
Noun
The movie’s own soul hinges on lengthy, stirring performances from the band. Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 13 Apr. 2026 The stirring of the home supporters by Rowe, however, made the sound of silence more deafening in the final minute. Jacob Tanswell, New York Times, 10 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for stirring

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Noun

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of stirring was before the 12th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Stirring.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/stirring. Accessed 23 Apr. 2026.

Kids Definition

stirring

adjective
stir·​ring
ˈstər-iŋ
: moving sense 3, inspiring
a stirring speech

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