Dictionary entries for 'stir'

Synonyms

stir¹ (stûr)

[Middle English stiren, from Old English styrian, to excite, agitate.]

verb: stirred, stir·ring, stirs.

1. To pass an implement through (a liquid, for example) in circular motions so as to mix or cool the contents: stirred the soup before tasting it.
2. To introduce (an ingredient, for example) into a liquid or mixture: stirred a cup of sugar into the cake batter.
3. To mix together the ingredients of before cooking or use: stirred up some popover batter; stirred the paint.
To cause to move or shift, especially slightly or with irregular motion: A breeze stirred the branches.
To prod into brisk or vigorous action; bestir: stirred themselves to fix breakfast.
1. To rouse, as from indifference, and prompt to action. See synonyms at provoke
2. To provoke deliberately: stirred by trouble.
To excite strong feelings in.

To change position slightly: The dog stirred in its sleep.
1. To move about actively; bestir oneself.
2. To move away from a customary or usual place or position: instructed the guards not to stir from their posts.
To take place; happen.
To be capable of being stirred: a mixture that stirs easily.
To be roused or affected by strong feelings: “His wrath so stirred within him, that he could have struck him dead” (Charles Dickens)

stir² (stûr)

[Origin unknown.]

Slang