arouse

IPA

Dictionary definition of arouse

To awaken, stimulate, or elicit a particular emotional, physical, or mental response in someone or something.
"The strong coffee will arouse your senses and get you ready for the day."

Detailed meaning of arouse

When we use the term "arouse," we emphasize the act of triggering a reaction, often one that is passionate, emotional, or intense. Arousing can relate to a wide range of feelings and sensations, such as excitement, curiosity, desire, or even anger. It can also pertain to the act of awakening from sleep or a state of rest. Arousal is often associated with provoking heightened emotions, interest, or physical responses, making it a versatile verb used to describe various forms of stimulation or awakening.

Example sentences of arouse

1. The smell of freshly baked bread will often arouse even the deepest sleeper.
2. The sound of the alarm clock will arouse you from your sleep in the morning.
3. The bright lights in the morning will arouse the animals in the zoo.
4. The chirping of the birds at dawn will usually arouse campers.
5. A sudden loud noise will surely arouse the dog from its slumber.
6. The school bell will arouse the children from their afternoon nap.

History and etymology of arouse

The verb 'arouse' has its etymological roots in Old French and Latin. It is derived from the Old French word 'arousen,' which is related to the Latin word 'adrodere,' where 'ad' means 'to' and 'rodere' means 'to gnaw' or 'to scrape.' Originally, 'arouse' carried the sense of awakening or stirring something, much like gnawing at it to bring it to life. Over time, it evolved to mean the act of stimulating or eliciting a particular emotional, physical, or mental response in someone or something. 'Arouse' implies the awakening of feelings, desires, or reactions, often through deliberate action or external influence. It can refer to the awakening of emotions, interest, curiosity, or physical sensations. Therefore, the etymology of 'arouse' underscores its historical connection to the idea of awakening or stimulating, emphasizing its role in describing the act of eliciting responses, as conveyed by its linguistic heritage.

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Further usage examples of arouse

1. The sight of the rising sun will arouse you from your meditation.
2. The rooster's crow will arouse the farmer at the break of dawn.
3. The sizzling sound of bacon in the pan will likely arouse the late sleepers in the house.
4. A splash of cold water on the face will quickly arouse a sleepy person.
5. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee will arouse anyone who is still in bed.
6. The smell of a delicious breakfast cooking will arouse the whole family on a lazy weekend morning.
7. An unexpected phone call in the middle of the night will arouse the entire household.
8. The sight of a bright screen will quickly arouse someone dozing off in front of the TV.
9. The sudden rainfall will arouse the plants from their dormant state.
10. The tickling sensation will definitely arouse the sleeping child.
11. A warm cup of tea will surely arouse you on a chilly morning.
12. The first rays of the sun will arouse the birds, initiating their morning chorus.
13. The sound of thunder in the distance will probably arouse the campers from their sleep.
14. The romantic novel was intended to arouse feelings of love and longing in its readers.