rapture 1 of 2

rapture

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verb

Synonym Chooser

How is the word rapture distinct from other similar nouns?

The words ecstasy and transport are common synonyms of rapture. While all three words mean "intense exaltation of mind and feelings," rapture usually implies intense bliss or beatitude.

in speechless rapture

How do ecstasy and rapture relate to one another?

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

When might transport be a better fit than rapture?

In some situations, the words transport and rapture are roughly equivalent. However, 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 rapture
Noun
Though some people have been quick to buy into the claims, other religious leaders are urging caution or insisting the rapture is not going to happen based on biblical interpretations. C. A. Bridges, AZCentral.com, 23 Sep. 2025 And so, Mhlakela’s promise of a rapture this week — coinciding with Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year — was seized upon by Christian TikTokers who began to spread the good news to their own followers and friends. Miles Klee, Rolling Stone, 23 Sep. 2025
Verb
For a movie about an apocalyptic clash of vampires and gangsters, Sinners has moments of unexpected jubilance, even rapture. A.a. Dowd, Rolling Stone, 17 Apr. 2025 Dispensationalism has an offensive reputation among many Jews because the End Times prophecy outlines an event in which Jews suffer mass slaughter while Christian believers are spared because God raptured them. Liam Adams, The Tennessean, 22 Nov. 2024 See All Example Sentences for rapture
Recent Examples of Synonyms for rapture
Noun
  • An episode of religious ecstasy in a depleted, soggy, English seaside town spirals toward violence—and culminates in one of the best endings in recent horror.
    Emma Specter, Vogue, 19 Oct. 2025
  • So, too, was the ecstasy at which City celebrated their equally exhilarating 3-2 victory over Arsenal, their joy at odds with the dejection of the Arsenal players who had twice clawed their way back to parity but failed to hold on.
    Megan Feringa, New York Times, 5 Oct. 2025
Verb
  • Gen Alpha’s latest viral catchphrase is baffling adults and delighting kids across the country.
    Kimberly Richardson, CNN Money, 21 Oct. 2025
  • Even the box will delight your dog.
    Christine Persaud, USA Today, 21 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • Tina Turner’s Gravity-Defying Wavy Shag Tina Turner’s higher-than-heaven shag was heavily teased at the roots, says Abramite.
    Marci Robin, Allure, 9 Oct. 2025
  • Scorsese’s life and work, still ongoing thank heavens, have been given a rather simple five-act structure for purposes of the documentary.
    Daniel Fienberg, HollywoodReporter, 4 Oct. 2025
Verb
  • The Spider Create Beauty Since the beginning of time, the eight-legged ones have entranced us with their ability to create something from nothing.
    Kate Siber, Outside, 21 Oct. 2025
  • Closing out the first decade of sound film, Son of Frankenstein has far more ropey dialogue than entrancing atmosphere or a memorable arc for the Monster.
    Rory Doherty, Vulture, 20 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • There is no shortage of pundits and fans who say Guardiola’s influence has been a turn-off, claiming the focus on possession and building from the back had sucked the joy, spontaneity and unpredictability out of the Premier League.
    Oliver Kay, New York Times, 16 Oct. 2025
  • While the angel gets a little jaded having to work a kitchen job and develops a smoking habit, there are moments of sheer joy as Gabriel hits a dance floor and bites into a juicy burger for the first time.
    Brian Truitt, USA Today, 16 Oct. 2025
Verb
  • Complete the autumnal theme with scents that transport you to the pumpkin patch, the forest, and even a backyard bonfire with oakwood and spiced notes like allspice and chestnut.
    Caley Sturgill, Southern Living, 19 Oct. 2025
  • Still, pairing Cheese Dreams with a dip like Caesar dressing, marinara sauce, or honey mustard might just transport you and your fellow diners to cloud nine.
    Karla Walsh, Better Homes & Gardens, 19 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • During an appearance on Simon Sinek’s podcast, A Bit of Optimism, Galloway shared his philosophy on money and happiness, arguing accumulating wealth beyond a certain threshold brings no additional fulfillment.
    Dave Smith, Fortune, 20 Oct. 2025
  • There’s nothing to cry about at Midwest Sad, a new all-day third space that brings a whole lot of happiness to the corner of Sixth and Bruce streets in Walker’s Point.
    Rachel Bernhard, jsonline.com, 20 Oct. 2025
Verb
  • Hill can take some of the early down carries away from Rhamondre Stevenson and TreVeyon Henderson.
    Andrew Callahan, Boston Herald, 17 Oct. 2025
  • High waters also carried away homes and caused damage to infrastructure.
    Julia Gomez, USA Today, 14 Oct. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Rapture.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/rapture. Accessed 23 Oct. 2025.

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