cathartic
Cathartic (adj) means producing an intense emotional release, especially after built-up tension or distress. Example: “Talking it through with a friend was cathartic after such a stressful week.”
How to use cathartic
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishEmotionally cleansing (the common use today), or, in medicine, something that clears out the bowels.
Word forms
more cathartic comparative, cathartics plural, most cathartic superlative
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
Talking it through with a friend was _____ after such a stressful week.
Etymology
Borrowed via New Latin catharticus from Greek kathartikos, "cleansing" — the same root as catharsis.
Synonyms
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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.