rustle

v. to make a soft, dry sound while moving, like paper or leaves.

v. to move or cause to move with a soft, crackling sound, typically produced by the friction of dry materials like leaves, silk, or paper.

“The dry leaves rustled under my feet as I walked through the park.”

“The wind rustled the heavy silk curtains, creating a gentle sound that filled the otherwise silent library.”

v. to steal farm animals like cows or horses.

v. to steal livestock, particularly cattle, horses, or sheep, from a farm or ranch.

“In the old movies, outlaws would often rustle cattle from the local ranches.”

“The gang was notorious for their ability to rustle hundreds of head of cattle across the border without being detected by the authorities.”

American English

v. to quickly find or prepare something, especially food.

v. to produce, prepare, or collect something quickly and energetically; usually followed by 'up'.

“Give me ten minutes and I can rustle up some eggs for breakfast.”

“Despite the late hour, the host managed to rustle up a decent meal for the unexpected guests using only what was in the pantry.”

Informal · British English

n. a soft, dry sound made by things rubbing together.

n. a light, soft sound of things gently rubbing together.

“I heard a rustle in the bushes and wondered if it was a small animal.”

“The only sound in the room was the faint rustle of pages as the students worked through their exam papers.”