English Explanatory Dictionary

exorcise

English dictionary entry

Meanings

verb
  1. To drive out (an evil spirit) from a person, place or thing, especially by an incantation or prayer.
  2. To rid (a person, place or thing) of an evil spirit.

Pronunciation

/ˈɛk.sɔː.saɪz/ LL-Q1860 (eng)-Vealhurl-exorcise.wav /ˈɛk.sɔɹˌsaɪz/ /ˈɛk.sɚˌsaɪz/

Word forms

exorcise exorcises exorcising exorcised exorcize

Etymology

From Middle English exorcisen, exorzisen, from Medieval Latin exorcizō, from Ancient Greek ἐξορκίζω (exorkízō, “to banish an evil spirit; bind by oath”), from ἐξ (ex) + ὅρκος (hórkos). Compare Old French exorciser.

Derived words

exorcisable exorcisement exorcism exorcist
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