Exsult

Part of speech: verb

Definitions

1. To jump or spring outward with sudden force ; to show triumphant joy or exultation
2. To leap forth or burst out suddenly ; to exhibit elation or delight in an exuberant way
3. To thrust or propel oneself outward abruptly ; to display jubilant exultation or delight

Etymology: "Exsult" carries the Latin spelling of its source. It comes from the Latin "exsultare," meaning to leap up or jump for joy, built from "ex-" ("out" or "up") and "saltare" ("to leap or dance"). The sense of physical bounding is still visible in the root, which is shared with "salient," a thing that leaps out and catches the eye. The more common modern form, "exult," is the same word with the "s" dropped, following the spelling of its French descendant. Both forms mean to rejoice greatly, usually in a triumphant or boastful way. The Latin root also gave English "assault," which came through Old French from a "leap at" sense, and "somersault," a leap head over heels.