exorcism

[ ek-sawr-siz-uhm, -ser- ]

noun

1. the act or process of exorcising.
2. the ceremony or the formula used in exorcising:

   An elaborate exorcism was pronounced over the sick man.

Other Words From

• ex·or·cis·mal [ek-sawr-, siz, -m, uh, l, ‑ser], ex·or·ci·so·ry [ek, -sawr-, sahy, -z, uh, -ree, ‑ser], exor·cisti·cal exor·cistic adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of exorcism¹

1350–1400; Middle English exorcisme (< Old French ) < Medieval Latin < Greek exorkismós administration of an oath. See exorcise, -ism

Example Sentences

“We occasionally deal with people who come along and say ‘help me, I’m possessed’ so they’re looking for an exorcism,” he said.

From BBC

The men were opposed to Mr Uddin’s practice of Ruqyah, a form of exorcism which is regarded by some as “black magic”, said Jason Beer KC, counsel to the inquiry.

From BBC

Similarly, religious wounds, or "church hurt" are exposed in Lee Daniels’ exorcism film "The Deliverance," albeit having a slapdash script.

From Salon

Stanton delivered regular sermons to community residents, which included exorcisms and speaking in tongues.

From BBC

“Paula said she was writing this to come to terms with her mother, almost like an exorcism of all that old anger,” Lange said.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• purification