rustle

American  

[ruhs-uhl] / ˈrʌs əl /

verb (used without object)

rustled, rustling

1. to make a succession of slight, soft sounds, as of parts rubbing gently one on another, as leaves, silks, or papers.

2. to cause such sounds by moving or stirring something.

3. to move, proceed, or work energetically.

   Rustle around and see what you can find.

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verb (used with object)

rustled, rustling

1. to move or stir so as to cause a rustling sound.

   The wind rustled the leaves.

2. to move, bring, or get by energetic action.

   I'll go rustle some supper.

3. to steal (livestock, especially cattle).

noun

1. the sound made by anything that rustles.

   the rustle of leaves.

verb phrase

1. rustle up to find, gather, or assemble by effort or search.

   to rustle up some wood for a fire.

rustle ¹ British  

/ ˈrʌsəl /

verb

1. to make or cause to make a low crisp whispering or rubbing sound, as of dry leaves or paper

2. to move with such a sound

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noun

1. such a sound or sounds

rustle ² British  

/ ˈrʌsəl /

verb

1. to steal (cattle, horses, etc)

2. informal to move swiftly and energetically

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Other Word Forms

• rustling adjective
• rustlingly adverb
• unrustling adjective

Etymology

Origin of rustle

First recorded in 1350–1400; Middle English verb rustlen; compare Frisian russelje, Dutch ridselen; imitative of the sound

Example Sentences

There’s no ambient cry of insects, no birdsong, and no rustle of leaves made by curious animals.

From Literature

A breeze rustled the leaves, and she shivered.

From Literature

But the rustle and crunch of breaking twigs was caused by Simon.

From Literature

In the months leading up to the conference, with Belem's few hotels full, organizers scrambled to rustle up delegate accommodation in private homes, universities and schools.

From Barron's

The forest rustled, and then Brightbill and Glimmer flew out from the trees.

From Literature

Related Words

• whoosh