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Exorcised Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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exorcised

[ˈɛk.sɔːr.saɪzd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

spiritual context

Exorcised refers to the act of driving out an evil spirit or demon from a person or place. This is often done through religious or spiritual rituals intended to purify the individual or environment.

Synonyms

cast out, drive out, expel, purge.

Examples of usage

  • The priest exorcised the haunted house.
  • They believed the boy was possessed and needed to be exorcised.
  • She felt lighter after being exorcised of her fears.
  • Local legends spoke of a witch who exorcised curses.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Religious Practices

  • In many religions, including Christianity, Judaism, and Islam, there are traditions of exorcism to rid individuals of demonic possession.
  • Rituals often involve sacred texts, prayers, and sometimes the use of holy water or symbols.

Pop Culture

  • The 1973 film 'The Exorcist' popularized the idea of exorcism in modern culture, depicting a young girl possessed and the priests who remove the spirits.
  • This film sparked numerous discussions and representations of exorcism in movies, books, and television shows.

Psychological Perspective

  • Some psychologists consider exorcism as a form of therapy for individuals experiencing extreme psychological distress.
  • Instead of actual spirits, the process can symbolize the removal of psychological burdens or trauma.

Historical Context

  • Exorcism practices date back to ancient civilizations, including Mesopotamia, where rituals were performed to appease angry gods.
  • Throughout history, various cultures have had their unique methods and beliefs surrounding evil spirits and how to combat them.

Origin of 'exorcised'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Greek 'exorkizein', meaning 'to bind by oath', which relates to the ritual of casting out.
  • In Latin, 'exorcismus' refers to the act of using spells or prayers to get rid of spirits.

The word 'exorcised' comes from the Middle English term 'exorcisen', which in turn traces its roots back to the Latin word 'exorcizare', meaning 'to conjure out by magic'. This is derived from the Greek 'exorkizein' which means 'to bind by oath'. The practice of exorcism has ancient origins, appearing in various cultures and religions, often associated with spiritual healing and the protection of the faithful from evil influences. Over the centuries, exorcism has been a subject of fascination, representation in literature, and dramatization in film, cementing its status in folklore and contemporary culture. Today, exorcism is practiced in several religious traditions, particularly within Christianity, where it is seen as a sacramental rite to confront and expel demonic forces.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #31,666 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.