Definition

To cause someone to stop sleeping or to become alert and aware.

Example

The loud noise will awaken the baby from her nap.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I need to find a way to awaken my creativity for this project.

Have you tried taking breaks or changing your environment?

That's a good idea! Sometimes a fresh space can really help awaken new ideas.

Absolutely! A little change can make a big difference.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Awaken is formed from "a-" (meaning on or in the process of) and "waken" (from Old English "wacnian", meaning to become awake or to rouse). The word "awaken" means to cause to become awake or to rouse from sleep.

Memory Tip

Think of being 'in the process of' ('a-') 'becoming awake' — that's what awaken means.

Visually Confused Words