awakens; awakened; awakening
somewhat formal
: to stop sleeping : to wake up
She usually awakens several times during the night.
A loud noise awakened her.
—often used as (be) awakenedI was awakened by the alarm clock.
—often used figurativelyHer arrival awakened [=revived] old memories.
His interest was awakened. [=aroused]
Cite this Entry
“Awaken.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/awaken. Accessed 16 Apr. 2026.
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