from
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48
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.
[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]