definition of
arousal

[1] #1 arousal n. [rousing] the act of arousing; "the purpose of art is the arousal of emotions". wn

[2] #2 arousal n. a state of heightened physiological activity. wn

[3] #3 arousal n. awakening from sleep. wn

[4] #4 arousal n. [foreplay, stimulation] mutual sexual fondling prior to sexual intercourse. wn