Exuberance Meaning and Definition

Exuberance

Exuberance

Pronunciation

/ɛksjuˈbɛrəns/

Part of Speech

Noun

Definition

A quality or feeling of infectious and unrestrained enthusiasm, excitement, and vitality.

Examples

  • The birthday girl’s exuberance was infectious, getting everyone in the party mood.
  • The young athlete’s exuberance on the field was a joy to watch.

Synonyms

  • Enthusiasm
  • Zest
  • Extravagance

Antonyms

  • Apathy
  • Lethargy
  • Meekness

Etymology

The word ‘exuberance’ comes from the Latin ‘exuberans’, meaning “abounding in” or “full of”, and the suffix ‘-ance’, forming a noun indicating a state or condition.

Usage Notes

Exuberance is often used to describe a person’s or object’s tendency to exhibit enthusiasm, energy, and vitality, but it can also be used to describe a quality or feeling that is infectious and unrestrained.

Cultural References

The word ‘exuberance’ has appeared in various cultural references, including literature, film, and music. For example, in the novel ‘The Great Gatsby’ by F. Scott Fitzgerald, the character of Daisy Buchanan is described as having an “exuberance” that is “infectious” and “irresistible”.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

  • Exuberance is contagious
  • The energy and exuberance of the crowd

Related Words or Phrases

  • Flair
  • Zest
  • Pizzazz

Collocations

  • Exuberance of youth
  • Exuberance of the crowd
  • Exuberance of the season

Frequency of Use

The word ‘exuberance’ is relatively uncommon in everyday language, but it is often used in literary and poetic contexts to describe a sense of enthusiasm, energy, and vitality.

Common Misspellings

  • Exberance
  • Exubrance
  • Exuberenc

Related Words