Part of Speech

Verb

Pronunciation

/əˈraʊz/

Definitions

1. (Verb) To stir up or bring about a strong feeling or emotion in someone.

2. (Verb) To wake someone up from sleep or inactivity.

3. (Verb) To provoke or stimulate physical or mental activity.

4. (Verb) To elicit or provoke a response, especially an emotional or psychological one.

Usage Examples

• "The news aroused a sense of fear and anticipation in the crowd."
• "His actions aroused suspicion among his colleagues."
• "The sound of the alarm aroused everyone in the building."

Etymology

The word "arouse" is derived from Middle English "arousen," from Old French "arouser," which means "to rouse or awaken." It originally referred to the act of awakening someone or something, and over time, expanded to include emotional and physical stimulation.

Synonyms

• Stimulate
• Excite
• Awaken
• Provoke
• Incite
• Ignite

Antonyms

• Calm
• Subdue
• Suppress
• Quell
• Pacify

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

The word "arouse" is pronounced similarly across various English-speaking regions, but slight differences may occur in the stress placed on the syllables. In American English, the emphasis is placed on the second syllable, whereas British English may place a slightly stronger emphasis on the first syllable.

Historical Usage

The verb "arouse" originated in the early 14th century and was initially used to refer to waking someone from sleep. Over time, its meaning expanded to encompass a broader range of emotional, physical, and mental stimulation. Its modern usage includes provoking emotional responses or awakening alertness in various contexts, including psychology and literature.

Cultural Nuances

The term "arouse" has evolved to include both physical and emotional contexts, especially in contemporary language. In modern culture, it is often associated with the stirring of strong feelings, including sexual arousal, but can also apply to heightened excitement or anger. It is a versatile term used in both everyday conversation and more formal or academic contexts.

More Information

The verb "arouse" plays a significant role in psychology, as it refers to the process of awakening both mental and physical responses. In psychological research, arousal refers to a state of physiological activation that can result from stimuli in the environment, and it is critical in understanding human behavior, emotional regulation, and cognitive processes. The word continues to be an important concept in both scientific discourse and everyday life.