awaken

wake up / rouse / stimulate / alert

Intransitive VerbTransitive Verb

past: awokepp: awokening: awakening

This word carries a more formal or poetic tone than the common verb wake. It often suggests a gradual transition from a state of dormancy or ignorance to one of awareness and vitality. When used figuratively, it describes the sudden revival of a dormant emotion or the realization of a truth, evoking a sense of enlightenment or spiritual stirring rather than a simple physical act.

Meanings

Intransitive Verb

To stop sleeping and become conscious.

"He awakened at dawn to the sound of birds singing."

Transitive Verb

[~ someone]

To cause someone to stop sleeping.

"The loud alarm awakened her from a deep sleep."

Transitive Verb

[~ something]

"The old photograph awakened long forgotten memories of his childhood."

Transitive Verb

[~ someone to something]

To make someone aware of a fact or a situation.

"The crisis awakened the public to the need for urgent environmental reform."

Last Updated: June 11, 2026•Report an Error