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Stir

Definitions and Meaning in English

1. To mix or move a substance, typically a liquid or powder, in order to combine it.
2. To provoke or stimulate a reaction, emotion, or action.
3. To disturb the peace or cause excitement.
4. To cause movement or activity, often in a subtle or gradual way.
5. A brief or light movement or disturbance.

History and Origin

The word “stir” comes from the Old English styran, meaning “to agitate” or “move.” It has roots in Germanic languages and has been used in various contexts related to physical mixing or causing emotional or social disruption. Over time, it extended beyond physical motion to include figurative uses, such as stirring emotions or thoughts.

Detailed Explanation

“Stir” has several meanings depending on the context. Physically, it refers to the act of mixing or moving substances, especially liquids, to achieve uniformity. In a social or emotional context, it means to provoke or excite feelings or reactions. The word also describes the act of causing unrest or disturbance, often by initiating some form of action or conflict. It can also refer to a slight or subtle movement that causes a reaction.

Example Sentences

1. She stirred the soup to ensure all the ingredients were mixed.
2. The news of the promotion stirred feelings of pride in the team.
3. His comments stirred a lot of controversy in the meeting.
4. The crowd was stirred by the passionate speech.
5. The chef gently stirred the batter to avoid overmixing.
6. The argument stirred up old tensions between them.
7. He tried to stir up trouble by spreading rumors.
8. The breeze stirred the leaves on the ground.
9. Her actions stirred a sense of excitement among the audience.

Synonyms with Short Explanation

1. Mix – To combine substances together, especially to form a uniform mixture.
2. Provoke – To cause or stimulate a particular feeling or action.
3. Excite – To stir up strong emotions or a heightened state of activity.
4. Disturb – To cause disruption or a change in the usual state.
5. Arouse – To evoke or bring about a response or reaction.

Related Words with Short Explanation

1. Blend – To mix substances to make them uniform or harmonious.
2. Incite – To encourage or provoke a strong reaction or action.
3. Agitate – To move or stir something, often with the intent to create change or unrest.
4. Stimulation – The act of encouraging or provoking action, emotion, or growth.
5. Turbulence – A state of disorder or agitation, often related to stirring.

More Matches with Short Explanation

1. Whisk – A tool used to stir or mix ingredients rapidly.
2. Foment – To stir up or instigate trouble or unrest.
3. Rile – To irritate or stir up anger or frustration.
4. Stirring – The action of creating excitement or emotion.
5. Commotion – A disturbance or agitation caused by a stir or reaction.

Antonyms

1. Calm
2. Sooth
3. Still
4. Settle
5. Quiet