rustle

[ruhs-uhl]

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.

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

/ 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

noun

1. such a sound or sounds

rustle

²

/ ˈrʌsəl /

verb

1. to steal (cattle, horses, etc)

2. informal,  to move swiftly and energetically

Other Word Forms

• rustlingly adverb
• unrustling adjective
• rustling adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of rustle¹

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of rustle¹

Old English hrūxlian ; related to Gothic hrukjan to _crow ², Old Norse hraukr raven, _crow ¹

Origin of rustle²

C19: probably special use of _rustle ¹ (in the sense: to move with quiet sound)

Example Sentences

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

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A breeze rustled the leaves, and she shivered.

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

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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.

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

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Related Words

• whoosh