Source : Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)

Rouse \Rouse\, v. t. [imp. & p. p. {Roused} (rouzd); p. pr. &
   vb. n. {Rousing}.] [Probably of Scan. origin; cf. Sw. rusa to
   rush, Dan. ruse, AS. hre['o]san to fall, rush. Cf. {Rush},
   v.]
   1. To cause to start from a covert or lurking place; as, to
      rouse a deer or other animal of the chase.

            Like wild boars late roused out of the brakes.
                                                  --Spenser.

            Rouse the fleet hart, and cheer the opening hound.
                                                  --Pope.

   2. To wake from sleep or repose; as, to rouse one early or
      suddenly.

   3. To excite to lively thought or action from a state of
      idleness, languor, stupidity, or indifference; as, to
      rouse the faculties, passions, or emotions.

            To rouse up a people, the most phlegmatic of any in
            Christendom.                          --Atterbury.

   4. To put in motion; to stir up; to agitate.

            Blustering winds, which all night long Had roused
            the sea.                              --Milton.

   5. To raise; to make erect. [Obs.] --Spenser. Shak.