catharsis
Catharsis (noun) means a powerful release of pent-up emotion, often triggered by a dramatic experience like a film, book, or performance. Example: “Watching the tragedy unfold on stage gave the audience a real sense of catharsis.”
How to use catharsis
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishAn emotional release that leaves you feeling lighter or cleansed, often after something intense.
Often paired with "cathartic" as the adjective form: a cathartic experience produces catharsis.
Trace the full origin ↓Word forms
catharses plural
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
Watching the tragedy unfold on stage gave the audience a real sense of _____.
Etymology
From Greek katharsis, "cleansing" or "purging" — Aristotle used the word to describe how tragic drama purges an audience's pity and fear.
Synonyms
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Frequently asked questions
What does “catharsis” mean?
The word “catharsis” means a powerful release of pent-up emotion, often triggered by a dramatic experience like a film, book, or performance. In plain terms, an emotional release that leaves you feeling lighter or cleansed, often after something intense.
How do you pronounce “catharsis”?
“Catharsis” is pronounced kuh-THAH-sihs (/kəˈθɑɹˌsɪs/ in IPA).
How do you use “catharsis” in a sentence?
Here is “catharsis” used in a sentence: “Watching the tragedy unfold on stage gave the audience a real sense of catharsis.”
What part of speech is “catharsis”?
“Catharsis” is a noun.
Where does the word “catharsis” come from?
The word “catharsis” comes from Greek. From Greek katharsis, "cleansing" or "purging" — Aristotle used the word to describe how tragic drama purges an audience's pity and fear.
How many meanings does “catharsis” have?
“Catharsis” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a powerful release of pent-up emotion, often triggered by a dramatic experience like a film, book, or performance.
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