noun

arousal

uh-ROW-zuhl

noun

The state of being stimulated or excited, whether emotionally, mentally, or sexually.

"The therapist explained how anxiety and physical arousal are closely linked."

"The film was praised for building suspense without relying on shock or arousal."

How to Use Arousal

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA state of being stirred up or stimulated — used for emotional, physical, or sexual excitement.

Common pairings

sexual arousal state of arousal level of arousal

arousals plural

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Formed from "arouse" plus the noun-forming suffix "-al".

refusal spousal