exultation
/ˌɛɡ.zʌlˈteɪ.ʃən/ IELTSAcademic
noun
Great joy and pride because something very good has happened. It is often stronger and more public than simple happiness.
- Her voice filled with exultation.
- The team shouted in exultation.
- He smiled with quiet exultation.
Adinary Nuance
Exultation is stronger than happiness and more excited than pleasure. It often suggests a proud, triumphant feeling after success or victory. Writers choose it when the joy feels intense and lifted, not calm or everyday. It is close to elation and jubilation, but it can sound a little more formal.
In other languages
- Vietnamese
- sự hân hoan
- Spanish
- exultación
- Chinese
- 欢欣
- Japanese
- 歓喜
- Korean
- 환희
Etymology
Exultation comes from Latin exultare, meaning "to leap up" or "rejoice." It entered English through Old French in the Middle Ages.
Common phrases
in exultationwith exultationfeel exultation
Synonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
- Is exultation a formal word?
- Yes, it is fairly formal. You may see it more in writing, speeches, and literature than in daily conversation.
- What is the difference between exultation and happiness?
- Happiness is general and common. Exultation is stronger, more intense, and often linked to success or victory.
- Can I use exultation in IELTS writing?
- Yes. It can work well in formal or literary writing when you want a stronger word than joy.
- Is exultation a common everyday word?
- No, it is not very common in speech. Many speakers would say joy, delight, or excitement instead.