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Exorcism - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Exorcism is the practice of expelling evil spirits or supernatural entities from a person or place, often performed through religious rituals or prayers. It is commonly associated with spiritual cleansing.

exorcism

/ˈɛksɔrˌsɪzəm/ /ˈɛksɔːˌsɪzəm/

Definition:

The act of driving out evil spirits from a person or place through rituals or prayers.

Synonyms:

purification, cleansing, banishing, expulsion

Part of Speech:

noun

Antonyms:

possession, infestation

Common Collocations:

perform an exorcism, ritual exorcism, demonic exorcism, priestly exorcism

Derivatives:

exorcist, exorcize

Usage Tips:

Use "exorcism" to describe formal rituals to remove evil spirits, often in religious contexts.

Common Phrases:

demonic exorcism, spiritual exorcism, ancient exorcism rites

Etymology:

Derived from Late Latin "exorcismus," from Greek "exorkismos," meaning binding by oath or expulsion of evil spirits.

Examples:

  • 1. The priest performed an exorcism to free the haunted house.
  • 2. Many cultures have traditions involving exorcism to cleanse negative energy.
  • 3. She believed an exorcism was necessary after strange occurrences in her home.
  • 4. The movie depicted a terrifying exorcism conducted by a brave clergyman.

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