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DictionaryRoot: ek-
Greek

ek-

out or out of

Forms

  • ek-
  • ex- — Used before a vowel in Greek.

Origin

An inherited Greek prefix related to Latin ex-.

Note

The two forms reflect the following sound, not different basic meanings.

5 / 6
noun

ecstasy

EK-stuh-see/ˈekstəsi/

A feeling of overwhelming joy.

The runner drops to his knees in ecstasy after crossing the finish.

A runner drops to his knees just beyond a broken finish ribbon, fists raised and face radiant with overwhelming joy; the extreme celebratory posture makes this more than ordinary satisfaction.
Etymology
ecGreekout or out of
+stasyGreekmake stand or set up

“Out” and “place” give the original image of displacement, extended to being out of one's normal mental state or in a trance. Mystical rapture probably helped this develop into the sense of overwhelming joy.

In context

Storytime Haven731:19
A shout of joy rose from the warriors around him. “The King of France! The King of France a prisoner!” they cried in an ecstasy.
Sir Nigel ⚔️🌟 | A Tale of Chivalry and Adventure | Arthur Conan Doyle

More examples

  • She listened in ecstasy to the final movement.
  • The reunion brought an ecstasy of relief.
  • He remembered the ecstasy of his first success.

Forms

ecstasy

Similar words

rapture
A similarly intense joy, often with spiritual associations.
bliss
Bliss can be peaceful rather than intensely excited.