'exhilarate' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'exhilarare,' where 'ex-' meant 'thoroughly' and 'hilarare' meant 'to make cheerful.'

'exhilarare' transformed into the Old French word 'exhilarer,' and eventually became the modern English word 'exhilarate' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'to make cheerful or merry,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'causing excitement and happiness.'