exorcise
exorcise Lexical Profile
exorcise Game Scores & Validity
• verb
To drive out or attempt to expel an evil spirit, demon, or malign influence from a person or place through solemn religious rites, prayers, or incantations.
"In medieval folklore, local priests were frequently summoned to exorcise spirits believed to be haunting abandoned dwellings."
To rid the mind or memory completely of a haunting experience, oppressive feeling, or painful memory.
"Writing her memoir helped the author finally exorcise the lingering regrets of her turbulent youth."
To free a person or place from a supposed evil spirit or malign influence through religious rituals.
"The ancient ritual was performed to exorcise the temple before the seasonal festival began."
Word Nuance & Usage
Do not confuse 'exorcise' (to expel an evil spirit or rid the mind of something oppressive) with its near-homophone 'exercise' (to engage in physical activity or put a right into practice). Unlike most words ending in '-ise' versus '-ize', 'exorcise' is the standard dominant spelling in both American and British English.
• Rhymes for exorcise
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Borrowed in Middle English via Old French and Late Latin 'exorcizare', from Ancient Greek 'exorkizein' (to bind by oath or banish an evil spirit), formed from 'ex-' (out) and 'horkos' (oath).