Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Arouse: meaning, definitions and examples

😏
Add to dictionary

arouse

 

[əˈraʊz ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

emotions

To evoke or awaken a feeling or emotion in someone.

Synonyms

awaken, evoke, stimulate.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
arouse

Typically used to describe stirring a strong emotional or physical response, often excitement or anger. It can also be used in a sexual context, so be mindful of the connotation.

  • The politician's speech was designed to arouse public anger.
  • The book succeeded in arousing her curiosity.
evoke

Used when you want to bring a memory, feeling, or image to mind. Often used in creative and descriptive contexts, like literature and art.

  • The old photographs evoked memories of my childhood.
  • Her painting managed to evoke a sense of tranquility.
awaken

Usually refers to bringing someone or something out of sleep, or to make someone aware of something for the first time. Less intense than 'arouse' and generally does not carry a sexual connotation.

  • The loud noise awakened the entire neighborhood.
  • Traveling to new countries can awaken a sense of adventure in people.
stimulate

Refers to encouraging or provoking activity, growth, or interest. Often used in scientific, economic, or educational contexts.

  • The new policy is designed to stimulate economic growth.
  • Good teachers know how to stimulate their students' curiosity.

Examples of usage

  • She was aroused by the passionate speech.
  • His words were enough to arouse suspicion.
  • The movie aims to arouse empathy in the audience.
Context #2 | Verb

sexual

To awaken sexual feelings or interest in someone.

Synonyms

excite, stimulate, titillate.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
arouse

Use when talking about awakening emotions, feelings, or interests. It is a more general term.

  • The movie aroused strong emotions in the audience.
  • The speech aroused interest in environmental issues.
excite

Use when causing great enthusiasm, interest, or eagerness. Can be both general and specific, like scientific excitement.

  • The upcoming concert excites the fans.
  • The new discovery in biology excites researchers.
stimulate

Use when encouraging development or increased activity, often used in educational, psychological, and economic contexts.

  • The new policy aims to stimulate economic growth.
  • Coffee can stimulate your senses.
titillate

Use when causing mild excitement or interest, often in a superficial or flirtatious manner. Can have a slightly negative or suggestive connotation.

  • The book's suggestive themes titillate its readers.
  • The sensational news title is designed to titillate and attract readers.

Examples of usage

  • The romantic scene in the movie aroused him.
  • Her provocative outfit was designed to arouse him.
  • The perfume she wore always aroused him.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word originates from Middle English 'arousen,' which means to wake or to stir up.
  • Its roots can be traced back to Old French 'arrouser,' meaning to wake up or excite.
  • Etymologically, it combines 'a-' meaning 'to' and 'rouse,' which implies awakening from sleep.

Psychology

  • In psychology, arousal refers to a state of being physically and mentally alert and ready for action.
  • Emotions can significantly influence levels of arousal, affecting not only mental states but also physical responses.
  • The Yerkes-Dodson Law illustrates that optimal performance occurs at moderate arousal levels—in other words, a balance is key.

Literature

  • Literary works often use arousal to depict passion, desire, or motivation, creating a deep emotional connection with characters.
  • In poetry, imagery describing natural elements can arouse strong feelings in readers, emphasizing beauty and intensity.
  • Classic novels often portray arousal as a pivotal moment in character development, sparking vital changes or decisions.

Pop Culture

  • Songs in various genres frequently explore themes of romantic and emotional arousal, resonating with listeners’ experiences.
  • Films often create tense scenes designed to arouse excitement, keeping audiences on the edge of their seats.
  • Social media trends can quickly arouse public interest, spreading ideas and emotions rapidly among vast audiences.

Science

  • In biology, arousal can refer to physiological responses, such as increased heart rates, indicating readiness for stress or excitement.
  • The amygdala plays a key role in emotional arousal, processing stimuli and triggering responses to perceived threats or pleasures.
  • Studies in neurobiology show that arousal levels can influence memory retention, as emotionally charged events are often easier to remember.

Translations

Translations of the word "arouse" in other languages:

🇵🇹 despertar

🇮🇳 उत्तेजित करना

🇩🇪 erregen

🇮🇩 membangkitkan

🇺🇦 збуджувати

🇵🇱 pobudzać

🇯🇵 興奮させる (こうふんさせる)

🇫🇷 éveiller

🇪🇸 despertar

🇹🇷 uyandırmak

🇰🇷 자극하다

🇸🇦 يثير

🇨🇿 vzbudit

🇸🇰 prebudiť

🇨🇳 唤醒 (huànxǐng)

🇸🇮 prebuditi

🇮🇸 vekja

🇰🇿 ояту

🇬🇪 გამოღვიძება

🇦🇿 oyatmaq

🇲🇽 despertar

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #10,639, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.