Definition of ecstasynext

Synonym Chooser

How is the word ecstasy distinct from other similar nouns?

The words rapture and transport are common synonyms of ecstasy. While all three words mean "intense exaltation of mind and feelings," ecstasy and rapture both suggest a state of trance or near immobility produced by an overpowering emotion; ecstasy may apply to any strong emotion (such as joy, fear, rage, adoration).

religious ecstasy

Where would rapture be a reasonable alternative to ecstasy?

While the synonyms rapture and ecstasy are close in meaning, rapture usually implies intense bliss or beatitude.

in speechless rapture

When would transport be a good substitute for ecstasy?

The words transport and ecstasy can be used in similar contexts, but transport applies to any powerful emotion that lifts one out of oneself and usually provokes vehement expression or frenzied action.

in a transport of rage

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of ecstasy The 29-year-old, who has made a career out of making 3-point shots, blacked out in basketball ecstasy. Benjamin Royer, Oc Register, 22 Mar. 2026 From math and poetry to aesthetics and ecstasy. Brittany Allen, Literary Hub, 19 Mar. 2026 The ecstasy of rebirth On the night she was released, Mejia’s legal team went to pick her up shortly before midnight. Emiliano Tahui Gómez, Austin American Statesman, 17 Mar. 2026 For instance, Virginia bluebells growingwith yellow celandine poppies can be an artist’s ecstasy. Charles Seabrook, AJC.com, 7 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for ecstasy
Recent Examples of Synonyms for ecstasy
Noun
  • The thing that draws so many folks to New England and gives us such joy in the summertime can be an absolute party-pooper in the spring.
    Terry Eliasen, CBS News, 14 Apr. 2026
  • On the lighter end of the dark comedy spectrum, Ruthless People is an utter joy from beginning to end, a mid-80s classic that still sparkles today.
    Debby Wolfinsohn, Entertainment Weekly, 13 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • In Catholic theology, purgatory is the in-between—not heaven, not hell, but a passage of purification before something better.
    Geoff Curtis, Fortune, 6 Apr. 2026
  • In an interview ahead of Palm Sunday, senior pastor Robert Jeffress reflected on specific scripture that says the whole world will burn someday, but there will be a new heaven and a new earth with Christ.
    Dallas Morning News, Dallas Morning News, 29 Mar. 2026
Noun
  • Though her character finds romantic happiness with Will Schuester, her role grew smaller as the actress pursued opportunities on series like The Millers and The League.
    James Mercadante, Entertainment Weekly, 11 Apr. 2026
  • Another close-up shot reflected his happiness, as he could be seen smiling widely at the camera with palm trees behind him.
    Kimberlee Speakman, PEOPLE, 10 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • The euphoria sent global equities rocketing on hopes the crisis that has shocked the global economy for more than a month will come to an end.
    CBS News, CBS News, 8 Apr. 2026
  • Such uncertainty caused some of the euphoria that fueled financial markets in the morning to fade as Wednesday’s trading progressed, and financial markets have been prone to sharp and sudden reversals since the war began.
    Stan Choe, Chicago Tribune, 8 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • Their delight can motivate you to keep doing the things that bring your heart happiness.
    Tarot.com, Chicago Tribune, 15 Apr. 2026
  • Her 9-year-old son, Matthew, helped his mom out by declaring that Maroon 5 is his favorite band, to Levine's delight.
    KiMi Robinson, USA Today, 15 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • Restaurant owners express elation, hoping the prestigious nod will elevate their cultural heritage and inspire others to seek out authentic cuisines.
    Stephanie Breijo, Los Angeles Times, 26 Mar. 2026
  • All the energy and elation, agony and anguish?
    Cody Stavenhagen, New York Times, 25 Mar. 2026
Noun
  • The idea of fancy food halls always seems to stir the brain’s pleasure systems.
    Bill Addison, Los Angeles Times, 11 Apr. 2026
  • Moreover, researchers from the University of Florida and University College London found that daily reading for pleasure has dropped about 40% between 2003 and 2023.
    Preston Fore, Fortune, 11 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • Jackson died from acute propofol intoxication in 2009 having been accused of improper relationships with three boys.
    Brian Niemietz, New York Daily News, 7 Apr. 2026
  • Police say the 32-year-old driver of the MKZ showed signs of intoxication and was taken into custody and brought to a local hospital for a blood draw.
    Joseph Buczek, CBS News, 6 Apr. 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Ecstasy.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/ecstasy. Accessed 18 Apr. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on ecstasy

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster