exuberant
ig-ZOO-bur-unt
/ɪɡˈzjuːbərənt/
Filled with or characterized by lively, uninhibited excitement and enthusiasm.
Implies overflowing, rich joy that cannot easily be contained.
The story behind the word. Originates from Latin 'exuberare' (to grow abundantly or overflow), built on 'uber' (fertile/udder). It originally described lush plants overflowing with sap before describing emotion.
Word relationships
- ecstatic: Ecstatic focuses on overwhelming bliss, whereas exuberant emphasizes overflowing active energy.
- subdued: Subdued implies quieted or restrained emotion.
Commonly confused with
- exorbitant: Exorbitant refers to unreasonably high prices or demands; exuberant refers to overflowing spirit or growth.
Word family
- exuberance (noun): The quality of being full of energy and cheer.
- exuberantly (adverb): With overflowing excitement.
Collocations
- exuberant joy
- exuberant applause
- exuberant celebration
Example sentences
- "The exuberant players poured onto the field, jumping and hugging after the winning goal." Sports victory
Memory hook
EXUBERANT energy is like an EX-UUBER driver celebrating a huge tip. Overflowing abundance of joy.
When not to use
Do not use for calm, subtle, or understated satisfaction.
Fun facts
- You can still speak of 'exuberant vegetation' to mean lush, wildly overgrown plants.
Related words
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