noun

exultation

eg-zul-TAY-shun/ˌeɡzʌlˈteɪʃn/

Great joy, especially at a success or victory.

The athlete raises his trophy in exultation on the winner's podium.

An older amateur athlete on a low winner's podium throws both arms overhead in exuberant triumph, gripping a trophy, his face lit by a broad open-mouthed smile.

Etymology

exLatinout

+ultLatinto leap

+ationLatinaction or state

The pieces evoke leaping out or up: the underlying verb described leaping or dancing for joy. That physical expression of delight became a name for triumphant gladness itself.

In context

Storytime Haven460:31

in a mad exultation of thankfulness. She smiled.

🌹 Angelica by Elisabeth Sanxay Holding | Classic Suspense Tale 🎭

More examples

A shout of exultation rises from the crowd as the final whistle blows.
She feels a rush of exultation when her acceptance letter arrives.
Their initial exultation fades as they realize how much work lies ahead.

Forms

exultation

exult verb — To feel or express great joy.

exultant adjective — Feeling or showing great joy over success.

Similar words

elation: Emphasizes uplifted spirits without necessarily suggesting victory or triumph.
jubilation: More strongly suggests an outward, often shared celebration of success.
delight: Can describe ordinary pleasure rather than intense, triumphant joy.