Source : Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)

Stare \Stare\, v. i. [imp. & p. p. {stared}; p. pr. & vb. n.
   {staring}.] [AS. starian; akin to LG. & D. staren, OHG.
   star[=e]n, G. starren, Icel. stara; cf. Icel. stira, Dan.
   stirre, Sw. stirra, and G. starr stiff, rigid, fixed, Gr. ?
   solid (E. stereo-), Skr. sthira firm, strong. [root]166. Cf.
   {Sterile}.]
   1. To look with fixed eyes wide open, as through fear,
      wonder, surprise, impudence, etc.; to fasten an earnest
      and prolonged gaze on some object.

            For ever upon the ground I see thee stare.
                                                  --Chaucer.

            Look not big, nor stamp, nor stare, nor fret.
                                                  --Shak.

   2. To be very conspicuous on account of size, prominence,
      color, or brilliancy; as, staring windows or colors.

   3. To stand out; to project; to bristle. [Obs.]

            Makest my blood cold, and my hair to stare. --Shak.

            Take off all the staring straws and jags in the
            hive.                                 --Mortimer.

   Syn: To gaze; to look earnestly. See {Gaze}.