exult
ig-ZULT
/ɪɡˈzʌlt/
Show or feel triumph, elation, or jubilation.
An active verb indicating leaping for joy or openly glorying in success or defeat of an opponent.
The story behind the word. From Latin 'ex-' (out, up) + 'saltare' (to leap, jump). The root literally means jumping out of your skin with physical joy.
Word relationships
- rejoice: 'Rejoice' is more general and moral, whereas 'exult' has a sharper, leaps-for-joy edge.
- lament: 'Lament' means to express deep grief or sorrow.
Commonly confused with
- exalt: 'Exalt' means to elevate or praise; 'exult' means to rejoice triumphantly.
Word family
- exultant (adjective): Triumphantly happy.
- exultation (noun): A feeling or show of triumphant joy.
Collocations
- exult in
- exult over
- exult at
- reason to exult
Idioms & expressions
- gloat over victory
Example sentences
- "The army began to exult after forcing the invading forces into retreat." Literary victory moment
Memory hook
EXULT sounds like LEAP AND VAULT — jumping up with victory. Leaping up in victory.
When not to use
Do not confuse with 'exalt' (which means to raise in rank or praise highly).
Fun facts
- The Latin root 'saltare' (to leap) is also found in 'somersault' and 'assailant' (someone who leaps at you).
Explore more words
elated, exuberant, exhilarating, whoop, exhilarate, ebullient
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