exaltation

Exaltation is the act or result of elevating someone or something to a higher position, rank, or level, or of praising highly. It can refer to literal elevation or to figurative elevations in status, honor, or importance. The term also denotes the state of being exalted.

Etymology: Exaltation comes from Latin exaltare, from ex- “up” and altus “high.”

Contexts: In religious usage, exaltation commonly denotes raising someone to divine glory or exalted status. In Christian theology, it is used of Christ’s exaltation to heavenly authority after the Resurrection and Ascension, and, in some traditions, of the ultimate glorification of the faithful. Some liturgical celebrations are titled Exaltation, such as the Exaltation of the Holy Cross, commemorating triumph and reverence.

Secular usage: Outside religion, exaltation refers to praising or promoting someone or something, the elevation of a person in rank, or the high valuation of an idea. The term can appear in rhetoric as exalted language or in descriptions of noble ideals.

See also: Exalt, Exalted, Exaltation of the Cross, Exultation.