Etymology

Noun

1. A release of emotional tension after an overwhelming vicarious experience, resulting in the purging or purification of the emotions, as through watching a dramatic production (especially a tragedy). Coined in this sense by Aristotle.

   Seeing the hero's catharsis helped her deal with the loss of her parents.

2. Any release of emotional tension to the same effect, more widely.
3. A purification or cleansing, especially emotional.
4. A therapeutic technique to relieve tension.
5. Purging of the digestive system.