Vocabulary in context
SAT Vocabulary Workbook
The closest companion to SATVocab for students who want guided lessons and written practice.
Check the workbook
Rouse
To awaken from sleep or to provoke action, interest, or emotion.
verbπ‘
Imagine This
Imagine a quiet town at dawn. A distant bell rings, and people begin to rouse from their sleep, doors open, and a plan forms to address a rising emergency.
π
Sounds Like
Phonetically /raΚs/; rhymes with 'house'.
π
Looks Like
Looks like arouse minus the initial 'a'; visually similar to related forms such as 'rousing' and 'rouser'.
π
Remember This
Rouse can mean waking someone physically or awakening motivation or emotion. It often implies initiating action, not just waking someone.
π
Other Forms
rousedverb
rousesverb
rousingadjective
rousernoun
π
Note
Do not confuse with 'rouse' as a noun; in most contexts it functions as a verb. In formal writing, 'arouse' can be a stronger or more formal synonym depending on context.
π§
Study Deeper
Examples
- The alarm rouses him from his sleep.
- The coach's pep talk roused the team to rally for a comeback.
Synonyms
awakenarousestimulategalvanizeincite
Antonyms
calmdampenstifle
Etymology
From Middle English rousen, likely from Old French roussir, related to arouse and the sense of waking or rising to action.
Mnemonic
R O U S E: Rise Out of Sleep; Use Stimulus to Energize.
How well do you know this word now?
Your choice schedules the next review.
Next Word
Continue in alphabetical order.
Try a Random Word
Pick any word below to jump in.
Similar Words
Related words and words with the same part of speech.
Incite
verbTo urge, provoke, or stimulate to action, often by arousing strong feelings; to stir up or excite others.
Stimulate
verbTo rouse or spur into action; to increase activity, interest, or development.
Abandon
verbTo give up completely, to desert or leave behind, or to relinquish a claim, plan, or responsibility.
Abate
verbTo decrease in amount or intensity; to reduce or end something.
Abolish
verbTo formally end or repeal a system, practice, or institution; to officially put an end to something established.
Abridge
verbTo shorten (a text, speech, or other work) by omitting parts; to condense.
Study beyond this word
Turn vocabulary practice into a complete SAT plan
Add a workbook for repetition or the official guide for full-test context.
First-time test takers
Official SAT Guide
Official question styles, test structure, and print practice from the College Board.
Check the official guidePaid Amazon links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.