adjective

rapturous

/ˈræptʃərəs/ · say it: RAP·chur·uhs

characterized by intense pleasure or enthusiasm

In Emotions & Moods

In more detail

1. (adjective) feeling or expressing extreme joy and delight

2. (adjective) characterized by intense enthusiasm and passion

Examples

1. The crowd gave the singer a rapturous reception, cheering and applauding wildly.
2. She spoke in rapturous terms about her trip to Paris.

How to use rapturous

Rapturous expresses extreme, almost uncontainable joy or enthusiasm, often public or observable. It is more intense and expressive than simply happy or pleased, and suggests both the feeling and its visible manifestation. The word is slightly formal or literary in tone and frequently describes reactions to performances, achievements, or momentous events.

Common phrases

rapturous applause
rapturous reception
rapturous joy
rapturous enthusiasm
rapturous welcome
rapturous delight

Synonyms

ecstatic · blissful · euphoric · delighted · enthusiastic

Opposites

miserable · dejected · apathetic

Word family

rapture (noun) · rapturously (adverb) · rapturousness (noun)

A common mistake

Learners sometimes use rapturous when merely pleased or satisfied would be more appropriate; rapturous should be reserved for states of intense, often ecstatic emotion.

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