Catheretic

/kæθəˈrɛtɪk/ adjective

Definition

Relating to or producing catharsis; purgative or cleansing in effect, especially emotionally or spiritually; purifying.

Etymology

From catharsis (Greek katharsis, meaning purification) plus the suffix -etic. The term refers to the classical idea that tragedy or emotional release produces spiritual cleansing or purification.

Kelly Says

A good cry watching a sad movie is 'catheretic'—Aristotle believed tragedy's entire purpose was to produce this emotional purification that actually makes you feel better afterward.

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