cathartic
6 synonyms for cathartic, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Adj — Producing an intense emotional release, especially after built-up tension or distress.
Synonyms
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Synonyms by Meaning
1. adj
Producing an intense emotional release, especially after built-up tension or distress.
“Talking it through with a friend was cathartic after such a stressful week.”
Etymology
Borrowed via New Latin catharticus from Greek kathartikos, "cleansing" — the same root as catharsis.
Full origin of cathartic →Frequently asked questions
What does “cathartic” mean?
The word “cathartic” means producing an intense emotional release, especially after built-up tension or distress. In plain terms, emotionally cleansing (the common use today), or, in medicine, something that clears out the bowels.
How do you pronounce “cathartic”?
“Cathartic” is pronounced kuh-THAHR-tihk (/kəˈθɑɹtɪk/ in IPA).
How do you use “cathartic” in a sentence?
Here is “cathartic” used in a sentence: “Talking it through with a friend was cathartic after such a stressful week.”
What part of speech is “cathartic”?
Depending on how it is used, “cathartic” can be an adjective and a noun.
Where does the word “cathartic” come from?
The word “cathartic” comes from New Latin. Borrowed via New Latin catharticus from Greek kathartikos, "cleansing" — the same root as catharsis.
How many meanings does “cathartic” have?
“Cathartic” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: producing an intense emotional release, especially after built-up tension or distress.
