The Open Dictionary

stir something up

Related to word: stir

Phrasal Verb

Definition (emotion)

  1. C2

    to initiate or escalate an unpleasant emotion or issue

    • His comments stirred up a dispute among colleagues.

    • The plot of the movie stirred up unpleasant emotions in the audience.

    • Her words might stir up tension in an otherwise calm situation.

Definition (substance)

  1. to set particles such as soil or dust into motion, causing them to rise

    • The wind stirred up the sand, causing it to rise into the air.

    • He accidentally stirred up some soil while working in the garden.

    • Sweeping the floor stirs up dust into the air.