exorcism

word

/ˈɛksɝˌsɪzəm/
/ˈɛksəsˌɪzəm/

Definition

A religious or spiritual ritual meant to drive out evil spirits or demons from a person, place, or thing.

Usage & Nuances

Used mainly in religious contexts, especially in Christianity, but also found in other faiths. Collocates with 'perform an exorcism' or 'undergo an exorcism.' Sometimes used metaphorically to mean removing bad influences.

Example Sentences

The priest performed an exorcism in the church.

basic

He joked that cleaning his messy room was like an exorcism for his mind.

natural

She believes an exorcism can free her from bad spirits.

basic

The movie was about an exorcism in a haunted house.

basic

Some people request an exorcism when they feel something strange at home.

natural

After the exorcism, everyone said the house felt lighter.

natural