What does stirred mean?
“Stirred” is the past tense and past participle of “stir,” with meanings that range from the physical to the emotional and political. In its most literal sense, it describes moving or mixing a liquid or other substance, as in stirring soup or a drink. Figuratively, it describes being deeply moved or emotionally roused: a speech or piece of music may stir an audience. It can also mean provoking people to respond, organize, or take action, especially in the expression “stirred into action.” These uses reflect the word’s long history: a physical movement can be intensified into emotional excitement, and that excitement can lead to purposeful action. “Stirred” is therefore useful because it connects the idea of movement with the ideas of feeling, awareness, and mobilization.
To mix or move a substance, especially with a utensil; to arouse emotion or interest; to provoke or cause someone to become active.
"The coach stirred the team into action before the final quarter."
The word is commonly used both literally and figuratively. “Stirred into action” and “stirred up” are especially idiomatic.
Emotionally moved, roused, or excited, often as a result of an experience or stimulus.
"He was visibly stirred by the news of the scholarship."
This use is often literary or formal and commonly follows “stirred by” or “stirred with.”
One word can describe both a spoon moving through soup and an audience rising to its feet: stirring, in its most literal and most powerful senses.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Words that share this root
How stirred is actually used
“Stirred” is neutral in register and especially common in figurative expressions such as “stirred into action” and “stirred by.” The phrase “stirred up” can suggest agitation or excitement and is slightly more informal than the more formal “roused” or “aroused.”