exhilarated

Exhilarated is a descriptive adjective that conveys a state of intense excitement and happiness, often accompanied by a surge of energy or vitality. A person, animal, or scene described as exhilarated is seen as buoyant and emotionally heightened, typically following a thrilling, joyful, or newly discovered experience. The term is used in both formal writing and everyday speech to express a strong positive mood, and it is often close in meaning to elated or thrilled, though exhilaration emphasizes immediacy and physical or mental stimulation.

Usage notes: Exhilarated generally refers to a temporary emotional condition rather than a lasting trait. It commonly arises from activities such as sports, travel, celebrations, or witnessing striking events. It frequently collocates with forms of "feel" (feel exhilarated), "become exhilarated," or "were exhilarated by," and may be intensified by modifiers like utterly, deeply, or immensely.

Etymology: Exhilarated derives from the verb exhilarate, which comes from Latin exhilarare "to cheer up" (ex- "out" + hilarus "cheerful"), with the adjective formed from the past participle. The word entered English in the early modern period and remains a standard, neutral term in contemporary usage.