elation
/ɪˈleɪ.ʃən/ IELTSAcademic
noun
Elation is a feeling of great happiness, excitement, and triumph. It is stronger and more high-spirited than simple happiness.
- She felt elation after hearing the good news.
- There was elation in the room after the results.
- His elation was obvious when they won.
Adinary Nuance
Elation is stronger and more intense than happiness or pleasure. It is close to joy, but joy can be calmer and longer-lasting. Writers choose elation when they want to show a high, excited, almost overflowing feeling. It often appears after success, victory, or great relief.
In other languages
- Vietnamese
- Sự hân hoan
- Spanish
- Euforia
- Chinese
- 兴高采烈
- Japanese
- 有頂天
- Korean
- 환희
Etymology
Elation came into English in the 17th century from Latin elatio, meaning "a lifting up." It is linked to the idea of being emotionally lifted upward.
Common phrases
in elationfeel elationa state of elationwith elation
Synonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
- Is elation formal or informal?
- It is fairly formal and common in writing, news, and academic English.
- What is the difference between elation and happiness?
- Elation is stronger, more excited, and often short-lived. Happiness is broader and more general.
- Can I use elation in everyday speech?
- Yes, but it sounds a little more literary or formal than happy.
- Is elation a positive word?
- Yes. It describes a very positive feeling after good news or success.