exult means to rejoice; to be very happy, especially in triumph; to triumph (over). Lexicurio rates it Rare gem — a strength score of 75 out of 100.
exult is pronounced /ɪɡˈzʌlt/.
Why “exult” is a great word
To rejoice exceedingly, especially in triumph or as a result of success. Its lineage is precise: from Middle French *exulter*, from Latin *exsultāre*, a frequentative verb meaning 'to leap up repeatedly or for joy', from *ex-* ('out') + *salīre* ('to jump, leap'). First attested in English in the 1560s with the sense 'to leap up', the meaning 'to rejoice, triumph' emerged by the 1590s. Unlike *exalt*, which elevates in stature, or *rejoice*, which suggests a quieter, more general delight, *exult* is the body's own, uncontainable verdict of victory. It is the athlete's arms flung skyward at the final whistle, the sharp, giddy cry that escapes a throat at news long hoped for, the soul's sudden, buoyant leap from the weight of the world—a momentary, physical proof that the spirit, too, can jump.
Etymology
From Middle French exulter, from Latin exsultō, frequentative of exsiliō (“jump up”), from ex- + saliō (“jump, leap”).
verb
- To rejoice; to be very happy, especially in triumph; to triumph (over).“I took a deep breath; a locomotive howled across-the darkness, Mobile-bound. So were we. I took off my shirt and exulted.”