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Definition of thrilling

thrilling

/ˈθrɪl.ɪŋ/
thril · ling
Adverb:thrillingly
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thrilling Lexical Profile

thrilling Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Causing sudden, intense excitement and pleasure; exhilarating.

Example

"The championship match concluded with a thrilling overtime victory that kept the entire stadium on its feet."

2

Producing a sharp, vibrating, or penetrating sensation or sound.

Example

"A thrilling resonance from the cello filled the concert hall during the soloist's opening cadenza."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for thrilling

• Nearby Words

thrill
thrilled
thriller
thrilling
thrillingly
thrinax
thrive

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed from the verb 'thrill' plus the participial suffix '-ing'; the root 'thrill' derives from Middle English 'thirlen' and Old English 'þyrlian', meaning 'to pierce or perforate', which gradually shifted to describe a piercing sensation of emotion.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Thrilling. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/thrilling
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