Which word describes a severe emotional reaction to loss?

The term that best describes a severe emotional reaction to loss is "grief." Grief encompasses the deep sorrow and mourning that individuals experience when they suffer a significant loss, such as the death of a loved one or the end of a meaningful relationship. This emotional response can manifest in various forms, including sadness, despair, and even physical symptoms, highlighting how profoundly losing someone or something can affect a person.

In contrast, "exhilaration" refers to a state of intense happiness or excitement, which does not relate to feelings of loss. "Excitement" also denotes a positive emotional state, one associated with enthusiasm and eagerness rather than sorrow. "Indifference" describes a lack of concern or emotional response, which stands in stark contrast to the profound reaction that grief entails. Thus, "grief" is clearly the most appropriate choice to reflect the severity of emotional pain connected to loss.