Excitement: quick facts
Excitement is a high-energy positive emotion felt in anticipation of or during something thrilling or rewarding. It is marked by physical arousal — a quickened pulse, restless energy, and a sense of eager readiness.…
Category
Basic emotions
Valence
Positive
Emotion family / blend
Happiness
Typical triggers
Anticipated rewards, new opportunities, thrilling activities, big events
How it's expressed
Wide eyes, fast speech, fidgeting, raised energy, animated gestures
Sources: American Psychological Association — APA Dictionary: emotion; Greater Good Science Center, UC Berkeley — Emotions; Paul Ekman Group — Universal Emotions. Educational information only — not medical or psychological advice. See our sources & fact-check policy.