© 2026 Sloth Lingo. Learn easy. Lounge wisely.

katharsis

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: /kæˈθɑːr.sɪs/

KK: /kæˈθɑːr.sɪs/

noun
Definition

A process of releasing strong or repressed emotions, often leading to a sense of relief or purification.


Example

After the therapy session, she felt a sense of katharsis that helped her move on from her past.


Conversation
Sloth A
I just finished watching a really emotional movie.
Sloth B
Oh really? Did it help you feel any sense of katharsis?
Sloth A
Definitely! I felt so much better after crying it out.
Sloth B
That’s great! Sometimes we really need that emotional release.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
cleansing
release
purification
Antonyms
suffering
anguish
tension
Root Explanation

**Katharsis** → It originates from the Greek word "katharsis" (καθαρσις), meaning purification or cleansing. The term is often used in the context of emotional release or purification through art, particularly in drama.

Memory Tip

Imagine the idea of 'cleansing' or 'purifying' emotions through a powerful story or experience — that's what katharsis represents.

Visually Confused Words
catharsis
Is this page helpful?