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Definition of astir

astir

/əˈstɜːr/
a · stir
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astir Lexical Profile

astir Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

In a state of excited movement, activity, or commotion.

Example

"The entire village was astir with preparations for the annual harvest festival."

2

Awake and out of bed.

Example

"Although it was barely dawn, the farmers were already astir and tending to the livestock."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• adverb

1

In or into a state of motion, activity, or excitement.

Example

"A sudden gust of autumn wind set the dry leaves astir across the courtyard."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for astir
Antonyms
View all antonyms for astir

Word Nuance & Usage

"Astir" is exclusively a predicate adjective, meaning it must follow a linking verb (e.g., "the household was astir") and cannot be placed directly before a noun.

• Rhymes for astir

• Nearby Words

astigmatism
astilbe
astilboides
astir
astonish
astonishing
astonishingly

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in Middle English from the prefix "a-" (from Old English "on", meaning 'in' or 'on') combined with the noun "stir" (commotion or movement).

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Astir. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/astir
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