Stir

Definition

Stir typically refers to the act of moving or mixing a substance by a circular or agitating action. It can also denote slight movement or emotional excitement.

Parts of Speech

• Verb
• Noun

Pronunciation

American English:

• IPA Pronunciation: /stɜr/
• Respelling: STUR (with "STUR" rhyming with "fur" and "cur")

British English:

• IPA Pronunciation: /stɜː/
• Respelling: STUR (similar to American English, with "STUR" rhyming with "fur" and "cur")

In both dialects, "stir" is pronounced with the "ur" sound, as in "fur" or "cur." The pronunciation of "stir" is consistent between American and British English, highlighting the word's straightforward phonetic structure.

Etymology

The word "stir" has its origins from Old English styrian, which is believed to be a Germanic word. It's akin to the Old Norse word styrja meaning to stir, and the Gothic stairnjan to stir up.

Derivatives

• Stirrer
• Stirring
• Stir-fry
• Stirrup
• Stirrable

Synonyms

• Agitate
• Mix
• Blend

Antonyms

• Still
• Settle
• Calm

Usage

Stir can be used both as a verb and a noun to describe physical movement, mixing action, or emotional reactions.

Related Terms

• Stir-fry
• Stirring rod
• Stirrup

Detailed Definition

Verb

• Physical Movement: To move slightly or to cause slight movement, especially by a gentle push or shake.
• Example: He stirred the soup with a spoon.

• Mixing Action: To mix a liquid or other substance by moving an object such as a spoon in a circular pattern.
• Example: Stir the mixture until it thickens.

• Emotional Reaction: To excite strong feelings in or rouse, as from indifference, sluggishness, or apathy; provoke.
• Example: The speech stirred the audience.

Noun

• Physical Movement: The act of stirring or moving.
• Example: With a stir of the brush, she mixed the colors together.

• Emotional Excitement: An emotional reaction or excitement.
• Example: The movie caused quite a stir in the community.