rhizoverbBeta
DictionaryexorcistExpeller of evil spirits
noun

exorcist

EK-sor-sist/ˈeksɔːrsɪst/

A person who expels supposed evil spirits through ritual or prayer.

The exorcist recites prayers to drive away supposed evil spirits.

A priest holds a crucifix toward a dark, menacing spirit emerging from a seated man's upper body; the spirit recoils while the priest firmly gestures it away.
Etymology
exGreekout of
+orcGreekoath
+istGreekperson who performs an action

The oath root connects this person with solemn invocation rather than physical force. The underlying verb meant “bind by oath” and came to mean driving out an evil spirit—the action an exorcist performs.

In context

SQRtv0:32
Dark Arts specialist Ian Lawman is an ordained exorcist and medium.
Celebrity Help! My House Is Haunted | S2E4 | Simon Gregson

More examples

  • The family calls an exorcist because they believe the house is haunted.
  • In the novel, an exorcist performs a ritual over the possessed child.
  • The documentary explores the prayers and rituals used by exorcists.

Forms

exorcist · exorcists

exorcise verb — Expel supposed evil spirits through ritual or prayer.

exorcism noun — A ritual intended to expel evil spirits.