GRE Word List

CATHARSIS

purification or purgation of the emotions (such as pity and fear) primarily through art

The meaning of the word catharsis is purification or purgation of the emotions (such as pity and fear) primarily through art.

Random words

WordMeaning
languiddrooping or flagging from or as if from exhaustion : weak
buttressa projecting structure of masonry or wood for supporting or giving stability to a wall or building
evanescenttending to vanish like vapor
outlandishof or relating to another country : foreign
fretto eat or gnaw into : corrode
quaintpleasingly or strikingly old-fashioned or unfamiliar
sphinx-likeenigmatic; mysterious
bacchanalorgy
impetuousmarked by impulsive vehemence or passion
extenuateto lessen or to try to lessen the seriousness or extent of (something, such as a fault or offense) by making partial excuses : mitigate