v. t. [ imp. & p. p. Roused p. pr. & vb. n. Rousing. ] [ Probably of Scan. origin; cf. Sw. rusa to rush, Dan. ruse, AS. hreósan 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. [ 1913 Webster ] Like wild boars late roused out of the brakes. Spenser. [ 1913 Webster ] Rouse the fleet hart, and cheer the opening hound. Pope. [ 1913 Webster ] 2. To wake from sleep or repose; as, to rouse one early or suddenly. [ 1913 Webster ] 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. [ 1913 Webster ] To rouse up a people, the most phlegmatic of any in Christendom. Atterbury. [ 1913 Webster ] 4. To put in motion; to stir up; to agitate. [ 1913 Webster ] Blustering winds, which all night long
Had roused the sea. Milton. [ 1913 Webster ] 5. To raise; to make erect. [ Obs. ] Spenser. Shak. [ 1913 Webster ] | 
