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 trailer starts with a scene of Colman’s head thrown back in ecstasy alongside some very loud creaking noises. — Emily Yahr, Washington Post, 31 Oct. 2026 Though this section feels lighter, the music remains dense, one swarming mass of sound traveling toward ecstasy. — Vanessa Ague, Pitchfork, 29 Oct. 2026 Tarantino responded to Coley’s question about the new film with an answer that immediately sent the audience at the Chinese into a state of cinephilic ecstasy. — Jim Hemphill, IndieWire, 24 Oct. 2026 Drums burst over pirouetting synth chords, while Stel’s wispy harmonies evoke the feeling of coming up on ecstasy. — Jeff Ihaza, Rolling Stone, 16 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for ecstasy
Recent Examples of Synonyms for ecstasy
Noun
  • This heartachingly lived-in quality runs throughout Unfindable Ring—an eclectic testament to the trials and joys of life as a career outsider.
    — Cameron Cook, Pitchfork, 13 Nov. 2026
  • Nothing gives me more joy than wandering through a museum full of beautiful things, then sitting down with a hot cocoa.
    — Sarah Stiefvater, Flow Space, 13 Nov. 2026
Noun
  • The painting is commanded by an umbrella pine, which arches high into the butter-yellow heavens, on the right, leaning over the heart of the composition.
    — Anthony Lane, New Yorker, 5 Nov. 2026
  • Tasting menu guests can expect six courses of heaven, filled with handcrafted pasta, fresh seafood and elevated entrees that with linger with you.
    — Heidi Finley, Charlotte Observer, 21 Oct. 2026
Noun
  • That pivot represents a rare about-face for a tech giant that has sought to remake the world in its own image, consumer happiness be damned.
    — David Ehrlich, IndieWire, 29 Oct. 2026
  • The amateur is freed from the pressures of exhibition and sale, but that might just as easily breed bitterness as happiness.
    — Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 27 Oct. 2026
Noun
  • House Democrats‘ midterm euphoria came to a crashing halt on Capitol Hill this week, as two voting setbacks pierced the party’s victory lap.
    — Hailey Bullis, The Washington Examiner, 12 Nov. 2026
  • In seconds the tingling numbness gave way to a heady euphoria.
    — Jen Murphy, Condé Nast Traveler, 10 Nov. 2026
Noun
  • Regardless, the movie’s litany of fantastical demons, and its anthropomorphic animal heroes, remain an audiovisual delight.
    — Siddhant Adlakha, Vulture, 9 Nov. 2026
  • But boy, does the audience shiver with delight watching Ghidorah stomp buildings to rubble while the sound design rattles our seats.
    — Amy Nicholson, Los Angeles Times, 6 Nov. 2026
Noun
  • Her feelings of elation, though, were tempered by a need to help others facing the same fight.
    — Karen Borta, CBS News, 22 Oct. 2026
  • So just imagine his joy and elation when those nearest and dearest to him recently gathered to give him an epic send-off to the Sunshine State to see his favorite team in action at the University of Florida in Gainesville.
    — Patrick Snell, CNN Money, 17 Oct. 2026
Noun
  • Read something for pleasure, sit somewhere quiet, or take a walk without an errand attached.
    — Tarot.com, Chicago Tribune, 11 Nov. 2026
  • Lately new, design-centric hotels and a growing slate of destination restaurants are joining the enduring pleasures to create an era of vibrancy for all travelers to enjoy.
    — Sarah Khan, Condé Nast Traveler, 11 Nov. 2026
Noun
  • In the Unite survey, 95% of cabin crew and 55% of ground staff said intoxication was the biggest trigger for abuse.
    — The Week UK, TheWeek, 3 Nov. 2026
  • David Pedro Sopys, 46, had died three days earlier from hyperthermia, with drug intoxication being a contributing factor.
    — Adriana Pérez, Chicago Tribune, 1 Nov. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Ecstasy.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/ecstasy. Accessed 15 Nov. 2026.

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