WordGarden.iostirrer
B1Pronunciation
UK
- /stˈɜːrə/
US
- /ˈstɜrər/noun
Meanings
Noun
a utensil, stick, or tool used to stir a drink or mixture
a person who deliberately causes trouble or provokes arguments
Beyond the definition
A "stirrer" is not always someone standing in a kitchen with a spoon. More often, it means a person who causes trouble on purpose or says things that push people into conflict. You might use it for someone who spreads gossip, starts arguments, or enjoys creating drama. Being called a "stirrer" is usually not a compliment.
It can also mean a simple tool used to mix something. In that sense, it could be a stick, spoon, or small rod used in cooking, drinks, or experiments. Context tells you which meaning is meant. For example: "He gave his coffee a quick mix with a plastic stirrer." Or: "She's always starting little arguments; she's such a stirrer."
The word "stirrer" has two main meanings: one literal and one figurative. Literally, a stirrer is an object used to mix liquids or ingredients—think of a spoon, rod, or magnetic device used in cooking, chemistry, or other applications. For example, "He used a metal stirrer to blend the paint thoroughly."
However, "stirrer" more commonly refers to a person who deliberately causes trouble, provokes conflict, or keeps a tense situation going. This is not usually about physical violence. It is more about stirring up feelings, arguments, or social drama. Someone who spreads rumors, repeats private information, or says things just to upset people may be called a "stirrer."
The figurative use comes from the idea of physically stirring something up and making it unsettled. A stirrer often enjoys the reaction they get from others. Sometimes the word suggests real malice, but sometimes it is used more lightly for a person who likes teasing people or creating a little chaos.
So, whether you're talking about a kitchen utensil or someone who enjoys causing a ruckus, "stirrer" describes something—or someone—that creates movement and, often, a little bit of trouble.
Examples
- 1
Coffee
There were no spoons, so I used a wooden stirrer for my coffee.
- 2
Hospitality
The hotel put tea bags, sugar, and a few stirrers next to the kettle.
- 3
Troublemaker
Don't listen to Sam's gossip about the team - he's a bit of a stirrer.
See also
Forms and spellings
2 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- stirrernoun
Forms
- stirrerspluralnoun