1. The process of releasing and providing relief from strong or repressed emotions through art, literature, music, or drama.
Usage: Also spelled 'catharsis' (more common in modern English).; Often used in literary and psychological contexts.
2. In ancient Greek drama and philosophy, the purification or cleansing of the soul through pity and fear, as described by Aristotle in relation to tragedy.
Usage: Classical/literary usage.; Foundational concept in dramatic theory.

Examples

• Watching the film provided a katharsis for her pent-up grief.
• The protagonist's final monologue delivered a powerful katharsis to the audience.
• Many people find katharsis through writing in a journal.
• Aristotle believed that tragedy achieves katharsis by evoking pity and fear.
• The concert was a katharsis for fans who had been waiting years for the band's reunion.
• Crying during the movie was a necessary katharsis for him.