Stirring: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when something arouses strong feelings or excitement. It is often used to describe speeches, performances, and music that energize or motivate people.

• The president's stirring address brought the crowd to its feet.
• A stirring rendition of the national anthem.

Appears in situations where strong feelings, whether happy, sad, or angry, are evoked. It is broad and can describe anything that deeply affects a person's feelings.

• The emotional farewell left everyone in tears.
• He gave an emotional speech at his retirement party.

Commonly used for something that touches people’s hearts and often makes them feel empathy or sympathy. It is often related to personal stories, art, and scenes that generate strong emotional reactions.

• The movie's ending was incredibly moving.
• She told a moving story about her childhood.

Used when something causes someone to feel sympathy, love, or pity. It is often described for moments that feel tender or heartwarming.

• It was touching to see the community come together to help the family.
• His kind words were very touching.

Best used to describe something that motivates people to take action, often in a positive manner. It can be applied to stories, people, speeches, and accomplishments that drive others to achieve more.

• Her success story is truly inspiring.
• The coach gave an inspiring talk before the big game.

Repeated for thoroughness: Usually used when you want to create a continuous movement to mix ingredients together, often slowly and deliberately. It can also denote emotionally moving actions or speeches.

• She was stirring the soup gently.
• The speech was so stirring that it moved many to tears.

General term for combining two or more substances. It can be used in both cooking and non-cooking contexts.

• She was mixing the batter for the cake.
• The DJ was mixing two songs together.

Typically used when combining substances smoothly so that they become one homogeneous mixture. It is often used in cooking, cosmetics, and art.

• Blend the ingredients until smooth.
• The artist is blending the colors on the canvas.

Often used when causing a movement or disturbance in a substance or a situation. It has a slightly negative connotation, implying a more forceful or disruptive action.

• The washing machine was agitating the clothes vigorously.
• His words were agitating the crowd.