Rouse/raʊz/ Definition 1 of 4Pro Tip 1/2Awakening Someone Use 'rouse' when describing gently waking a person rather than startling them. The smell of coffee roused her from her morning drowsiness. Pro Tip 2/2Starting Activity 'Rouse' implies stimulating someone to move or act, often used after inactivity. A motivational talk can rouse team spirit before a game.