aroused

[ uh-rouzd ]

adjective

1. stirred up to strong response:

   The Legislature must answer for its actions to an informed and highly aroused public.

2. showing or feeling sexual excitement:

   "I must ask you that question more often, husband," she says, an aroused glow in her eyes.

3. awake and alert:

   In this long arctic winter the new moon makes me lethargic, and conversely the full moon keeps me pleasantly aroused and energetic.

verb

1. the simple past tense and past participle of arouse ( def ).

Other Words From

• un·a·roused adjective
• well-a·roused adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of aroused¹

arouse ( def ) + -ed ²( def )

Example Sentences

Finally, “Aura and Performance” considers divinity as aroused by the senses, especially sight.

From Los Angeles Times

Suspicions were reportedly aroused when a test-taker was seen repeatedly fidgeting with their glasses frames, according to one source briefed on the probe.

From Los Angeles Times

Mr Mukhopadhyay’s suspicions aroused when a caller asked him why he hadn't redeemed his mutual funds - not a question a police officer would usually ask on the phone.

From BBC

Davis’ extensive criminal record, and the leniency he had received over the decades, aroused outrage.

From Los Angeles Times

It was a public health success, but it aroused a tremendous local backlash.

From Salon

Related Words

• anxious
• apprehensive
• discouraged
• distressed
• fearful
• frightened
• horrified
• intimidated
• nervous
• perplexed
• perturbed
• scared
• shocked
• spooked
• startled
• timid