Stare, v. i. [imp. & p. p.@Stared (@stârd); p. pr. & vb. n.@Staring.] [AS. starian; akin to LG. & D. staren, OHG. starēn, G. starren, Icel. stara; cf. Icel. stira, Dan. stirre, Sw. stirra, and G. starr stiff, rigid, fixed, Gr. στερεόσ solid (E. stereo-), Skr. sthira firm, strong. √166. Cf. Sterile.] 1. To look with fixed eyes wide open, as through fear, wonder, surprise, impudence, etc.; to fasten an earnest and prolonged gaze on some object.
For ever upon the ground I see thee stare. Chaucer.
Look not big, nor stamp, nor stare, nor fret. Shak.
2. To be very conspicuous on account of size, prominence, color, or brilliancy; as, staring windows or colors.
3. To stand out; to project; to bristle.
Makest my blood cold, and my hair to stare. Shak.
Take off all the staring straws and jags in the hive. Mortimer.
Syn. — To gaze; to look earnestly. See Gaze.