exaltation - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
exaltation Word Meanings
- a feeling of intense happiness
- the act of raising someone to a higher status
- extreme joy or delight
exaltation Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
exaltation Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˌɛksɔːlˈteɪʃən/
US
/ˌɛksɔlˈteɪʃən/
exaltation Word Etymology
Root decomposition: exalt + ation. Historical origin: from Latin 'exaltatio' through Old French into English. Memory image: Imagine a triumphant figure rising above a crowd, basking in glory, which connects to the intense joy of achievement.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Exaltation is a noun that describes a powerful feeling of joy and elevation, often accompanying a major achievement or a moment of public praise. In everyday usage, it can refer to being carried away by happiness, or to the act of raising someone to a higher status, rank, or esteem, whether through ceremony, promotion, or ideological zeal. The tone of exaltation is intense and celebratory, sometimes bordering on overwhelm, and it can imply both personal elation and communal or ceremonial elevation. Learners should distinguish exaltation from milder words like joy, happiness, or pride, because exaltation carries a sense of ascent, transcendence, and public recognition.
Usage Reminders
- Use exaltation for moments of public elevation or intense, ceremonial joy
- Avoid overstating a simple gladness as exaltation
- Pair with verbs like feel, experience, or mount to convey ascent
- Note that exaltation carries a sense of transcendence, not just happiness
- Watch for collocations like public exaltation, ceremonial exaltation, or political exaltation
- Remember it can imply others’ recognition as well as your own
Common Misconceptions
- Exaltation = happiness in every situation; it is stronger and more ceremonial than ordinary joy
- It is purely religious or sacred and not usable in secular contexts
- It only describes how a person feels, not about elevation of others
- It is a neutral term; it never conveys hyperbole or drama
- You can always substitute exaltation with pride or excitement without changing meaning
Thinking Differences
English tends to treat exaltation as a strong, sometimes literary, form of joy tied to ascent or public recognition; learners should not replace it with milder terms in formal contexts.
Learning Tips
- Memorize that exaltation implies ascent or public recognition
- Practice with phrases like 'in exaltation' or 'exalted by the ceremony'
- Compare with joy, happiness, pride to feel the nuance
- Note collocations: public exaltation, ceremonial exaltation
- Watch for contexts of awards, promotions, or rituals
- Use in writing to convey a grand, formal tone
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the definition of the word 'exaltation'?
A.An act of lowering or belittling
B.A state of confusion or chaos
C.A feeling of intense joy or happiness
D.A form of punishment or chastisement
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses the word 'exaltation' correctly?
A.He felt exaltation when he lost in the final match.
B.The exaltation of the crowd was evident when they booed the player.
C.Her face lit up with exaltation after winning the award.
D.The report was filled with exaltation and despair.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'exaltation'?
A.Melancholy
B.Despair
C.Ecstasy
D.Indifference
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'exaltation'?
A.Dejection
B.Elation
C.Happiness
D.Excitement
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life example of feeling exaltation?
A.Being in a quiet place fosters contemplation and peace.
B.Receiving bad news often brings sadness to many.
C.Winning a major competition can lead to overwhelming joy.
D.Watching your favorite team lose makes most fans upset.
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