Definition of arouse

The word "arouse" has a fascinating etymology. It comes from the Old French word "arouser," which is derived from the Latin "aroscere," meaning "to raise" or "to lift." This Latin verb is also related to the verb "aror," which means "to plough" or "to cultivate." In the 14th century, the Old French "arouser" acquired a sense of "to stir up" or "to awaken," likely due to the idea of ploughing or cultivating the earth. The word eventually made its way into Middle English as "arouse," retaining its sense of "to stir up" or "to awaken," but also developing a connotation of "to excite" or "to stimulate," particularly in a physical or sensual context. Despite its varied meanings, the word "arouse" remains rooted in its ancient agricultural heritage.