excitement

UK: ɪkˈsaɪtmənt | US: ɪkˈsaɪtmənt

Definition
  1. n. a feeling of great enthusiasm and eagerness

  2. n. something that causes such a feeling

  3. n. the state of being emotionally aroused or stimulated

Structure
excite <to stir up>ment <noun suffix>
Etymology

excite<to stir up> + ment<noun suffix>

  • excite: From Latin excitare ("to call forth, rouse"), combining ex- ("out") + citare ("to set in motion").
  • ment: A suffix forming nouns indicating an action, process, or result (e.g., enjoyment, achievement).

Etymology Origin:
The word excitement traces back to Latin excitare, meaning "to rouse or provoke." The prefix ex- ("out") suggests outward energy, while citare ("to move") implies motion. Over time, excitement evolved from physical agitation (e.g., stirring a crowd) to emotional arousal (e.g., enthusiasm). The suffix -ment solidifies it as a noun describing the state or result of being excited.

Examples
  1. The children screamed with excitement when they saw the fireworks.

  2. Traveling to new places always fills her with excitement.

  3. The announcement of the concert caused widespread excitement among fans.

  4. He tried to hide his excitement when he received the job offer.

  5. The movie’s climax was full of suspense and excitement.