v. 1. To bring (something) into being, often by great exertion or activity; cause. It was a quiet afternoon, and John tried to stir up some excitement. Bob stirred up a fight between Tom and Bill.
Compare: WHIP UP 2 . 2. To cause (someone) to act; incite to action or movement; rouse. The coach's pep talk stirred up the team to win. When Mary heard what Betty said about her, she became stirred up.