Arousal
/əˈraʊzəl/
Definitions
2 meaningsThe state of being physiologically or emotionally stimulated or excited.
/əˈraʊzəl/
State of being aroused
His arousal was evident in his flushed face and rapid breathing.
💡 Simply: Being awake or excited.
More Examples
The film depicted scenes of intense sexual arousal.
How It's Used
"The experiment measured physiological arousal in response to the stimulus."
"Increased arousal can lead to higher heart rate and blood pressure."
Physiological and psychological excitement related to sexual activity.
/əˈraʊzəl/
Sexual arousal
The romantic scene caused a feeling of sexual arousal.
💡 Simply: Sexual excitement.
How It's Used
"Sexual arousal is a natural response to sexual stimulation."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
From Middle English *arousen, from Old French *aroiser, from Vulgar Latin *ad- + *aurare 'to breathe, to blow'. The sense evolved from the physical act of waking to broader senses of stimulation and excitation.
While the word has ancient roots, its modern usage in psychological and physiological contexts is relatively recent.
Memory tip
Think of 'rouse' - to wake up or excite; arousal is the state of being roused.
Word Origin
"to breathe, to blow; to stir up"