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Revel Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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revel

[ˈrɛvəl ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

enjoyment

To take great pleasure or delight in something. It often implies a sense of celebration or festivity.

Synonyms

celebrate, delight in, enjoy.

Examples of usage

  • She revels in the success of her business.
  • The children reveled in the snowball fight.
  • We reveled in the beauty of the sunset.
Context #2 | Noun

festivity

A lively party or celebration characterized by dancing, drinking, and loud music.

Synonyms

celebration, festivity, party.

Examples of usage

  • The revel lasted until the early hours of the morning.
  • The annual revel in the town square drew a large crowd.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Cultural Practices

  • Many cultures have festive seasons where revelry is customary, such as Mardi Gras in New Orleans.
  • In ancient Rome, festivals like Saturnalia featured reveling and social role-reversals.
  • During the Carnival season, people participate in parades and parties, symbolizing joy and celebration.

Literature

  • 'Revel' features prominently in works from Shakespeare, where characters indulge in festivities, reflecting human desires.
  • Modern literature often uses reveling as a metaphor for freedom or breaking societal norms.
  • The 'Revelations of St. John' in the Bible offers a contrasting view of revelry associated with end times.

Psychology

  • Participating in revelry can boost mental health by enhancing mood and reducing stress.
  • Group celebrations often lead to feelings of belonging and community among participants.
  • Research suggests that joy from reveling can trigger the release of endorphins, promoting happiness.

Pop Culture

  • Songs celebrating revelry, like Pharrell Williams' 'Happy,' have become anthems of joy and festivity.
  • Movies often depict characters experiencing moments of revelry as pivotal turning points in their lives.
  • Social media platforms are filled with photos and videos of delightfully reveling moments shared among friends.

Origin of 'revel'

Main points about word origin

  • 'Revel' comes from the Latin word 'rebellare,' which means to rebel or revolt.
  • In the Middle Ages, the word evolved to mean indulging in feasts or merrymaking.
  • The term 'revelry' is derived from 'revel' and refers specifically to lively festivities.

The word 'revel' originated from Middle English 'revelen', which in turn came from Old French 'reveler' meaning 'to rebel, to riot'. The sense of celebration and enjoyment associated with the word emerged in the late 14th century. Over time, 'revel' has come to represent the joyous and festive activities that people engage in to celebrate special occasions or simply enjoy life.

See also: revelry.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #20,595, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.