exhilaration

noun

ex·​hil·​a·​ra·​tion ig-ˌzi-lə-ˈrā-shən How to pronounce exhilaration (audio)
1
: the action of exhilarating
2
: the feeling or the state of being exhilarated

Examples of exhilaration in a Sentence

I felt a kind of exhilaration when I reached the top of the mountain. the lavish spectacle results in one exhilaration after another
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
In her wild behavior, her pursuit of chaotic situations and turbulent relationships, there is exhilaration with a purpose. Anahid Nersessian, The New Yorker, 5 Mar. 2025 But exhilaration runs neck and neck with exhaustion. Charles McNulty, Los Angeles Times, 1 Mar. 2025 This can similarly be attributed to our brain's creative and imaginative capabilities and the attendant sense of exhilaration and wonder upon encountering something new. Marcus Weldon, Newsweek, 24 Feb. 2025 So the [Super Bowl] spots were really meant to just give you a glimpse of what awaits guests at Epic Universe, a multi-sensory, mind-blowing experience that will elicit a full range of emotions: fear, joy, exhilaration, and even awe. Abbey White, The Hollywood Reporter, 18 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for exhilaration

Word History

First Known Use

1622, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of exhilaration was in 1622

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Exhilaration.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/exhilaration. Accessed 19 Mar. 2025.

Kids Definition

exhilaration

noun
ex·​hil·​a·​ra·​tion ig-ˌzil-ə-ˈrā-shən How to pronounce exhilaration (audio)
1
: the action of exhilarating
2
: the state or the feeling of being exhilarated : high spirits

More from Merriam-Webster on exhilaration

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!