Bestirred: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word comes from the Old English 'styran', meaning 'to stir or move'.
• It combines the prefix 'be-', indicating a change, with 'stirred', which suggests action or movement.

Literature

• In classic poetry, being bestirred often symbolizes the awakening of the spirit or mind, reflecting the idea of inspiration.
• Authors use the term to evoke a sense of urgency or a shift from rest to active engagement in the narrative.

Psychology

• Bestirring is linked to motivation, where environmental cues can trigger an individual to take action.
• Feeling 'bestirred' can lead to increased energy levels and productivity, helping one overcome lethargy.

Pop Culture

• The concept of bestirring can often be found in motivational speeches and self-help books, where leaders inspire action.
• Songs about overcoming difficulties often capture the essence of being bestirred from a state of complacency.

Philosophy

• Many philosophical discussions focus on the idea of awakening one's potential, paralleling the notion of being bestirred.
• The idea can also be related to existentialism, where individuals are called to actively engage with their existence rather than remaining passive.