Words / C2

k-uh-THAHS-is/kəˈθɑːsɪs/

Catharsis is the release of strong feeling, with a sense of relief (literary / psychological): a moment of catharsis, tragic catharsis. Relief (already in the dictionary) is everyday lessening of pressure; an outlet (already in the dictionary) is a way of expressing a feeling. A maelstrom (already in the dictionary) is a violent swirl of emotion, not a purge of it. Do not let the hush after a gala stand in for a named warden.

Meaning

The release of strong feeling, with a sense of relief (literary / psychological).

Examples

• “Catharsis after the gala is not cover for an unnamed fire warden.”
• “Relief is a lessening of pressure (already in C1). An outlet is a way to express feeling (already in B1). A maelstrom is a violent swirl (already in C2). Quiet after a sitting can be harmless. Quiet instead of a rota is a hole. Write the name; then the hush may be earned.”

Good to know

A releasing purge of feeling. Everyday: relief / release (already in this dictionary). Close: outlet (already in B1). Contrast: maelstrom (a swirl — already in C2). A hush is not a warden.

Near in meaning

release, purgation, relief, cleansing

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