catharsis

The definition of catharsis is letting out your anger or frustration so you can feel better.

(noun)

An example of catharsis is talk therapy.

See catharsis in Webster's New World College Dictionary

noun

purgation, esp. of the bowels
the purifying of the emotions or relieving of emotional tensions, esp. by art; concept applied originally by Aristotle to the effect of tragic drama on the audience
Psychiatry the alleviation of fear, problems, and complexes by bringing them to consciousness or giving them expression

Origin: ModL < Gr katharsis, purification < kathairein, to purify < katharos, pure

See catharsis in American Heritage Dictionary 4

noun pl. ca·thar·ses (-sēz)

Medicine Purgation, especially for the digestive system.
A purifying or figurative cleansing of the emotions, especially pity and fear, described by Aristotle as an effect of tragic drama on its audience.
A release of emotional tension, as after an overwhelming experience, that restores or refreshes the spirit.
Psychology
a. A technique used to relieve tension and anxiety by bringing repressed feelings and fears to consciousness.
b. The therapeutic result of this process; abreaction.

Origin:

Origin: New Latin

Origin: , from Greek katharsis

Origin: , from kathairein, to purge

Origin: , from katharos, pure

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