What does exalted mean?
'Exalted' is an adjective describing something or someone placed at a high level, whether literally or figuratively. It most commonly refers to elevated rank or status, as in 'an exalted position' or 'the exalted ruler of the realm', conveying dignity, prestige, and sometimes reverence. It also describes an emotional state of intense joy or spiritual elation, as when someone feels exalted after a great achievement or profound experience. Less frequently, it characterizes ideas, language, or art that are lofty, noble, or sublime. The word derives from the Latin 'exaltare', meaning 'to raise up', combining the prefix 'ex-' ('out, up') with 'altus' ('high'). Because of its formal register and dignified connotations, 'exalted' appears more often in literary, religious, or ceremonial contexts than in everyday speech. It remains useful precisely because it captures both social elevation and inner transcendence with a single term, lending gravity and elegance to descriptions of rank, emotion, or aspiration.
Elevated in rank, character, or estimation; lofty or sublime.
"He spoke of justice in exalted terms that moved the entire assembly."
Past tense and past participle of 'exalt': to raise someone or something to a higher rank, position, or level of praise.
"The ancient texts exalted wisdom above wealth and power."
Despite sounding purely positive today, 'exalted' shares an ancient root with 'haughty' — both trace back to the Latin 'altus', meaning simply 'high'.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of exalted
'Exalted' is the past participle of the verb 'exalt', which entered English from Old French 'exalter' in the late Middle Ages, ultimately deriving from the Latin 'exaltare', meaning 'to raise high' or 'to elevate'. The Latin combines 'ex-' ('out, upward') with 'altus' ('high'), the same root that gives us 'altitude', 'alto', and, through a different path, 'haughty'. Over time the adjective developed beyond its literal sense of physical elevation to describe high social rank and, later, states of intense emotional or spiritual uplift.
Related word forms
How exalted is actually used
'Exalted' is a fairly formal word, common in written and literary English rather than casual conversation. When applied to people or positions it connotes high status and often carries a hint of reverence or awe. Applied to emotions, it suggests a heightened, almost transcendent joy. It can occasionally carry a slightly ironic tone when describing someone who takes themselves too seriously.
Easily confused with exalted
'Exalted' means elevated or elated, while 'exhausted' means extremely tired or depleted — despite their similar spellings, they are nearly opposite in emotional connotation.