cathartic – providing psychological relief through emotional release

(Pronounced kuh-thahr-tik)

To remember the definition of the word cathartic, use the following mnemonic:

"Thank heavens there is a cathedral in the Arctic," (cathartic) and she cried as an emotional release. It provided her with psychological relief. 

Examples of cathartic in a sentence

If done in a safe environment, smashing things can be very cathartic.

After Mabel learned her husband had been unfaithful, she decided burning his belongings would be cathartic.

For Karl, boxing is a cathartic sport that allows him to let go of his anger.