rouse
The loud noise roused the sleeping baby.
The loud noise woke up the sleeping baby.
to wake someone from sleep
The alarm clock roused him at 6 AM.
The alarm clock woke him up at 6 AM.
Often used when someone is woken abruptly or with difficulty.
to stir someone to action or emotion
Her speech roused the crowd to protest.
Her speech motivated the crowd to protest.
Can imply awakening someone's emotions or passions.
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Literal vs. Figurative Use
Remember that 'rouse' can mean both waking someone up and stirring them to action.
Gold Rule
Context Matters
The meaning depends on whether it's used in a literal (sleep) or figurative (motivation) context.
Word Origin
From Middle English 'rousen', from Old French 'resouscir', from Latin 'resuscitare' (to revive).
Usage Notes
Can be used both literally (waking someone up) and figuratively (motivating someone).