First Known Use: before 12th century
Dictionary
1stir
verb \ˈstər\
: to mix (something) by making circular movements in it with a spoon or similar object
: to move or cause (someone or something) to move after being still
: to be active or busy
stirredstir·ring
Full Definition of STIR
transitive verb
1
a : to cause an especially slight movement or change of position of b : to disturb the quiet of : agitate —often used with up <the bear stirred up the bees>
2
a : to disturb the relative position of the particles or parts of especially by a continued circular movement <stir the pudding> <stir the fire> —often used with up <stirred up mud from the lake bottom> b : to mix by or as if by stirring —often used with in <stir in the spices>
4
: to bring into notice or debate : raise —often used with up <stir up sensitive issues>
5
intransitive verb
1
a : to make a slight movement <the leaves were barely stirring> b : to begin to move (as in rousing) c : to shift to another location : budge <haven't stirred since I arrived>
2
: to begin to be active <the factory stirred to life>
3
: to be active or busy <not a creature was stirring — Clement Moore>
4
: to pass an implement through a substance with a circular movement
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Origin of STIR
Middle English, from Old English styrian; akin to Old High German stōren to scatter
2stir
noun
Definition of STIR
1
a : a state of disturbance, agitation, or brisk activity b : widespread notice and discussion : impression <the book caused quite a stir>
2
: a slight movement
3
: a stirring movement
First Known Use of STIR
14th century
3stir
noun
STIR[1] Defined for Kids
1stir
verb \ˈstər\
stirredstir·ring
Definition of STIR for Kids
1
: to make or cause to make a usually slight movement or change of position <She heard the child stir in bed.> <The breeze stirred the tree's leaves.>
2
: to make active <A good book can stir the imagination.>
3
: to mix, dissolve, or move about by making a circular movement in <He stirred sugar into his coffee.> <Stir the gravy so it doesn't burn.>
4
: to cause to arise or take place <Don't stir up trouble.>
2stir
noun
Definition of STIR for Kids
1
: a state of upset or activity <A stir of excitement swept through the watching animals … — Robert Lawson, Rabbit Hill> <The whole town is in a stir.>
2
: a slight movement <We heard the stir of leaves in the breeze.>
3
: the act of making circular movements in <Give the sauce a stir.>
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