Excitement

Definition

Excitement is a noun that refers to a feeling of enthusiasm, eagerness, or heightened energy. It can describe both the state of being excited and the stimulus or event that triggers such a reaction.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɪkˈsaɪtmənt/
• Respelling: ik-SYT-muhnt

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɪkˈsaɪtmənt/
• Respelling: ik-SYT-muhnt

Etymology

The word "excitement" originates from the Latin "excitare," meaning "to rouse" or "to stir up." It evolved through Old French as "exciter" and entered Middle English as "exciten," later taking on the form "excitement" in the early 17th century to denote a state of stirred emotions or interest.

Derivatives

• Excite (verb)
• Excited (adjective)
• Exciting (adjective)
• Excitability (noun)
• Excitable (adjective)

Synonyms

• Enthusiasm
• Eagerness
• Thrill

Antonyms

• Calmness
• Indifference
• Apathy

Usage

The noun "excitement" is frequently used to convey a sense of joy or intense interest, as in "The children could hardly contain their excitement on Christmas morning." It also describes events or circumstances that induce these feelings, such as "The upcoming concert is a source of great excitement."

Related Terms

• Anticipation: The feeling of expecting or looking forward to something.
• Joy: A feeling of great pleasure or happiness.
• Energy: The strength and vitality needed for physical or mental activity, often associated with excitement.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A feeling of enthusiasm or eagerness: Refers to an intense emotional reaction of joy or thrill.
  • Example: "The excitement of the roller coaster ride was unforgettable."
• A state of arousal or heightened interest: Describes the mental or emotional condition of being highly stimulated.
  • Example: "There was an air of excitement in the stadium as the game began."
• Something that triggers a feeling of enthusiasm or eagerness: Refers to the event or cause of excitement.
  • Example: "The parade was the main excitement of the day."