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Arousing: meaning, definitions and examples

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arousing

 

[əˈraʊzɪŋ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

feeling

Eliciting sexual desire or excitement.

Synonyms

exciting, provocative, stimulating.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
arousing

This word is often used when something causes a strong sexual or emotional reaction. Its usage may sometimes have a slightly negative or adult-oriented connotation.

  • The movie had several arousing scenes that were not suitable for children.
  • The novel is filled with arousing descriptions that leave little to the imagination.
exciting

Used to describe something that generates enthusiasm, interest, or eagerness. This term is generally positive and can be used in a wide range of contexts.

  • The roller coaster ride was incredibly exciting!
  • Her new job offer was the most exciting news she'd received all year.
stimulating

This word is used to describe something that encourages thought, interest, or activity. It is generally positive, used in both intellectual and sensory contexts.

  • The lecture was highly stimulating and led to many interesting discussions.
  • The coffee was very stimulating, waking him up instantly.
provocative

Often describes something that is deliberately meant to elicit a strong reaction, whether emotional, intellectual, or social. It can sometimes have a negative connotation if the intent is to offend or cause controversy.

  • The artist's provocative works challenge conventional ideas about beauty.
  • His provocative comments sparked a heated debate.

Examples of usage

  • The novel was so arousing that I couldn't put it down.
  • Her arousing dance moves captivated the audience.
Context #2 | Verb

emotion

To evoke a strong feeling of interest, excitement, or emotion.

Synonyms

awaken, provoke, stimulate.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
arousing

Used when something causes strong feelings or excitement, often of a sexual nature. Be cautious, as this word can have sensual connotations and might be inappropriate in formal contexts.

  • The movie was very arousing, but not suitable for children.
  • She found his presence to be arousing in an unexpected way.
stimulate

Used when something encourages activity or increased interest, especially in a mental or physical context. This word is versatile and can be used in both positive and neutral situations.

  • The professor's lecture on neuroscience was very stimulating.
  • This new drug is designed to stimulate brain function.
provoke

Commonly used when something causes a strong negative reaction, such as anger or irritation. It often implies a deliberate action to incite a response.

  • His rude comments are likely to provoke an argument.
  • She knew her behavior would provoke a strong response from her parents.

Examples of usage

  • The speaker's words aroused a sense of patriotism in the crowd.
  • The music was so beautiful that it aroused tears in her eyes.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the Middle English 'arousen', which relates to the idea of stirring up or awakening.
  • Its roots are found in the Old English 'arǣsan', meaning to rise or to raise.
  • The term has evolved over centuries, often referring to both physical and emotional awakening.

Psychology

  • Arousal is linked to the body's fight-or-flight response, increasing heart rate and alertness.
  • Different stimuli can evoke emotional arousal, such as a thrilling movie scene or a beautiful piece of music.
  • Psychologists study arousal levels to understand how they affect communication, attraction, and emotional bonding.

Pop Culture

  • Songs and movies often explore themes that arouse feelings of love, excitement, or tension, engaging audiences deeply.
  • In advertising, marketers use arousing messages to grab attention and evoke emotional responses to products.
  • Certain genres, like horror and romance, intentionally aim to arouse specific feelings in viewers or readers.

Literature

  • Many poets use descriptive language to create arousal in readers, invoking strong feelings through imagery.
  • In classic literature, themes of love and desire often create arousing plots that drive character motivations.
  • Authors often explore the connection between literary devices and emotional arousal to enhance storytelling.

Biology

  • Arousal can refer to an increase in physiological activity, tied to elements like stress hormones or adrenaline.
  • The body's sympathetic nervous system is activated during moments of emotional arousal, preparing it for action.
  • Studies in neuroscience show that different areas of the brain are activated during emotional arousal, affecting how we react to situations.

Translations

Translations of the word "arousing" in other languages:

🇵🇹 excitante

🇮🇳 उत्तेजक

🇩🇪 erregend

🇮🇩 merangsang

🇺🇦 збуджуючий

🇵🇱 pobudzający

🇯🇵 興奮させる

🇫🇷 excitant

🇪🇸 excitante

🇹🇷 uyarıcı

🇰🇷 흥분시키는

🇸🇦 مثير

🇨🇿 vzrušující

🇸🇰 vzrušujúci

🇨🇳 令人兴奋的

🇸🇮 vznemirljiv

🇮🇸 örvandi

🇰🇿 қоздыратын

🇬🇪 აღგზნებული

🇦🇿 həyəcanlandırıcı

🇲🇽 excitante

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #16,628, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.