Synonym Chooser

How is the word ecstasy distinct from other similar nouns?

The words rapture and transport are common synonyms of ecstasy. While all three words mean "intense exaltation of mind and feelings," ecstasy and rapture both suggest a state of trance or near immobility produced by an overpowering emotion; ecstasy may apply to any strong emotion (such as joy, fear, rage, adoration).

religious ecstasy

Where would rapture be a reasonable alternative to ecstasy?

While the synonyms rapture and ecstasy are close in meaning, rapture usually implies intense bliss or beatitude.

in speechless rapture

When would transport be a good substitute for ecstasy?

The words transport and ecstasy can be used in similar contexts, but transport applies to any powerful emotion that lifts one out of oneself and usually provokes vehement expression or frenzied action.

in a transport of rage

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of ecstasy Both are staples of the food cinema genre and celebrate the agony and ecstasy cuisine and cooking can offer. Harrison Richlin, IndieWire, 7 Jan. 2025 Gerard tried to take over Arizona's ecstasy scene in the late 90s, starting a rivalry with British stockbroker Shaun Attwood. Jessica Boehm, Axios, 13 Jan. 2025 The feats, the ecstasies, the prostrations and abnegations. James Parker, The Atlantic, 10 Jan. 2025 Synthetic bath salts, also known as Alpha-PVP or cathinone, are believed to be similar to methamphetamine, cocaine or ecstasy, and are unrelated to actual bath products. Landon Mion, Fox News, 4 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for ecstasy 
Recent Examples of Synonyms for ecstasy
Noun
  • Mbappe celebrated in his usual way in recent months, running back to the centre circle, throwing his hands up in the air in an outpouring of joy and anger and urging his team-mates to push on.
    Mario Cortegana, The Athletic, 9 Feb. 2025
  • The three-pound mixed-breed internet-famous therapy dog dispensed joy simply by existing.
    Maya Salam, New York Times, 8 Feb. 2025
Noun
  • The heavens are aligned with your relationships, Sagittarius.
    Kyle Thomas, People.com, 16 Feb. 2025
  • In the meantime, enjoy the beauty that is the Great Nebula of Orion in the late winter heavens.
    Mike Lynch, Twin Cities, 16 Feb. 2025
Noun
  • Dopamine is also released, creating happiness and satisfaction while lowering levels of stress and anxiety.
    Yaakov Katz, Newsweek, 8 Feb. 2025
  • Today well-lived makes every yesterday a dream of happiness and every tomorrow a vision of hope.
    Contributed Content, Twin Cities, 7 Feb. 2025
Noun
  • There was the monotony, euphoria, and bemusement of performing the same show to 60,000 screaming fans night after night.
    Federico Fahsbender, Rolling Stone, 11 Feb. 2025
  • There’s a lot of euphoria and triumphalism right now among Trump supporters, and even among Trump-skeptical conservatives.
    Dan McLaughlin, National Review, 11 Feb. 2025
Noun
  • Cowan appeared briefly at the end of the show – a parade of outlandish patterns and teased wigs – much to the delight of boyfriend Sam Smith who watched on alongside Kesha, who also camped out at the afterparty at Casa Cipriani.
    Alyssa Goldberg, USA TODAY, 15 Feb. 2025
  • Some presidents defy political gravity, to the delight of their impersonators.
    Sopan Deb, New York Times, 14 Feb. 2025
Noun
  • Armed with metal detectors, a shovel, sifting screens and a 60-pound magnet, Levy has helped recover belongings for wildfire victims for more than 30 years – bringing tears of joy and shrieks of elation to despondent victims who have lost most everything else.
    Holly Yan, CNN, 2 Feb. 2025
  • Fear, helplessness, relief, and elation had coursed through us and, with the storm, left us, weak and spent.
    Scott Haugen, Outdoor Life, 30 Jan. 2025
Noun
  • Larry enjoyed traveling for both business and pleasure with his wife.
    Contributed Content, Twin Cities, 7 Feb. 2025
  • The Eagles want greatness − and the pleasure of unseating a rival.
    Nicole Fallert, USA TODAY, 7 Feb. 2025
Noun
  • While being taken for treatment at Good Samaritan University Hospital in West Islip, a paramedic allegedly smelled alcohol on her breath and witnessed other signs of intoxication, the Suffolk County Police Department said.
    David Matthews, New York Daily News, 12 Feb. 2025
  • David Campbell of Stafford is charged with breaking and entering, assault and public intoxication, the Stafford County Sheriff's office said.
    Louis Casiano, Fox News, 8 Feb. 2025

Thesaurus Entries Near ecstasy

Cite this Entry

“Ecstasy.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/ecstasy. Accessed 21 Feb. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on ecstasy

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