Meaning & Definition of word "Cathartic"
Cathartic
/kəˈθɑːrtɪk/
noun:
- 1. A substance that causes evacuation of the bowels; a purgative.
- Example: The doctor prescribed a cathartic to help relieve the patient's constipation.
adjective:
- 1. Providing psychological relief through the open expression of strong emotions.
- Example: The movie was a cathartic experience for many viewers, allowing them to release pent-up feelings.
- 2. Relating to or producing catharsis.
- Example: Her cathartic writing process helped her cope with her grief after the loss of her friend.
Etymology
●From the Greek 'kathartikos', meaning 'able to purge.'
Common Phrases and Expressions
cathartic release:
A powerful release of emotions or feelings; often used in therapeutic contexts.
cathartic experience:
An event or process that promotes emotional relief or cleansing.
Related Words
catharsis:
The process of releasing, and thereby providing relief from, strong or repressed emotions.
therapy:
Treatment intended to alleviate or heal a disorder.
Slang Meanings of cathartic
Meaning: An intense emotional purge, often used informally.
● Example Sentence: After that breakup, watching sad movies felt cathartic.