What does exultingly mean?
Exultingly is an adverb describing action performed with open, triumphant joy — the kind of elation felt at a hard-won victory rather than quiet contentment. Someone who cries out exultingly, raises their arms exultingly, or announces news exultingly is displaying jubilation that cannot be contained. The word derives from the verb exult, which traces back to Latin exsultare, meaning 'to leap up repeatedly,' a vivid image of joy expressed through movement. In modern usage it is relatively rare and leans literary: it appears most naturally in narrative prose, sports reporting, and formal writing, where its slightly heightened tone suits moments of dramatic triumph. Writers choosing between exultingly and its more common synonym exultantly will find little difference in meaning; exultingly simply emphasizes the manner of the underlying act of rejoicing. Its connotations are overwhelmingly positive, though it can shade into gloating when triumph is directed at a defeated opponent.
adverbIn a manner expressing great joy, triumph, or jubilation, especially over a success or victory.
- In a way that shows triumphant joy or jubilation, especially over a victory or success.
"She exultingly raised the trophy above her head as the crowd roared."
"The fans exultingly poured onto the pitch when the final whistle confirmed the championship."
"He read the acceptance letter aloud, his voice rising exultingly with every line."
Exultingly comes from Latin exsultare — literally to leap up again and again, like someone so happy they physically cannot keep their feet on the ground.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of exultingly
Exultingly is formed from the verb exult plus the adverbial suffix -ing and -ly. Exult entered English in the early 17th century from French exulter, which derives from Latin exsultare, meaning 'to leap up, to spring about joyfully' — a frequentative form of exsilire, combining ex- ('out') with salire ('to leap'). The same Latin root salire also gives English words such as salient, resile, and result. Cognate forms include exultant and exultation, all preserving the image of leaping for joy.
Related word forms
How exultingly is actually used
Exultingly is literary and somewhat formal in register; it appears far more often in narrative and journalistic prose than in everyday speech, where speakers typically prefer 'triumphantly,' 'jubilantly,' or the simpler phrase 'with delight.' The word inherently connotes triumph over an obstacle or rival, not just ordinary happiness.
Easily confused with exultingly
Exultantly is simply the more common synonym meaning 'in a triumphant manner,' while exultingly carries the same sense but is formed directly from the verb exult and is noticeably rarer in modern usage.
Extolingly would mean 'in a praising manner' (from extol, to praise highly), whereas exultingly means 'in a rejoicing or triumphant manner' — praise versus celebration.