exorcise

/ɛksˈɔrsaɪz, ɛɡˈzɔrsɪz/

Definitions

1. verb

to perform an exorcism, typically by casting out a demon or evil spirit from a person or place

“The priest spent hours exorcising the evil spirit from the possessed child.”

2. verb

to remove or drive out something unpleasant or unwanted, such as a bad habit or a feeling of guilt

“She tried to exorcise her feelings of regret by volunteering at a local charity.”

3. noun

the act of performing an exorcism

“The exorcise was a solemn and intense ceremony.”

Synonyms

  • cast out
  • drive out
  • evict
  • oust

Antonyms

  • invigorate
  • revitalize