Rouse \Rouse\, v. t. [imp. & p. p. Roused (rouzd); p. pr. &
vb. n. Rousing.]
[Probably of Scan. origin; cf. Sw. rusa to
rush, Dan. ruse, AS. hre['o]san to fall, rush. Cf. Rush,
v.]
1. To cause to start from a covert or lurking place; as, to
rouse a deer or other animal of the chase.
Like wild boars late roused out of the brakes.
--Spenser.
Rouse the fleet hart, and cheer the opening hound.
--Pope.
2. To wake from sleep or repose; as, to rouse one early or
suddenly.
3. To excite to lively thought or action from a state of
idleness, languor, stupidity, or indifference; as, to
rouse the faculties, passions, or emotions.
To rouse up a people, the most phlegmatic of any in
Christendom. --Atterbury.
4. To put in motion; to stir up; to agitate.
Blustering winds, which all night long Had roused
the sea. --Milton.
5. To raise; to make erect. [Obs.]
--Spenser. Shak.
Source: Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)
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