arousal
UK: əˈraʊzəl | US: əˈraʊzəl
n. the act of arousing or the state of being aroused
n. physiological or psychological awakening, especially in response to stimuli
n. heightened emotional or sexual excitement
The word "arousal" derives from the verb "arouse," which originated in the late 16th century from the prefix "a-" (intensifying) + "rouse" (to wake or stir up). "Rouse" itself comes from Middle English "rousen," likely of Germanic origin, related to Old English "rǣran" (to raise). The suffix "-al" converts the verb into a noun, denoting the action or result of arousing. Over time, "arousal" expanded from literal awakening to include emotional and physiological stimulation.
The loud noise caused sudden arousal from sleep.
Emotional arousal can affect decision-making.
The study measured participants' levels of sexual arousal.
Caffeine increases mental arousal and alertness.
His speech triggered an arousal of patriotic feelings.