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

The smoke from the burger place blurs the leaves above me until a breeze rustles through, clearing the air and exposing a huge black sign with neon-green.and-yellow lettering over the trees.

From Literature

The pile rustled and birthed another rat, smaller but with the same snowy fur and red eyes as her brother.

From Literature

Do labor leaders really think they can’t rustle up a quarter of their members to ensure the union preserves its role in representing workers?

From The Wall Street Journal

Opening the side door to let in a swish of satin and rustle of feathers.

From Literature

The crunch and rustle drew nearer, then halted about three paces away.

From Literature

Related Words

• whoosh