Distraction

Distraction Dis*trac"tion, n. [L. distractio: cf. F. distraction.] 1. The act of distracting; a drawing apart; separation. [1913 Webster]

To create distractions among us. --Bp. Burnet. [1913 Webster]

2. That which diverts attention; a diversion. ``Domestic distractions.'' --G. Eliot. [1913 Webster]

3. A diversity of direction; detachment. [Obs.] [1913 Webster]

His power went out in such distractions as Beguiled all species. --Shak. [1913 Webster]

4. State in which the attention is called in different ways; confusion; perplexity. [1913 Webster]

That ye may attend upon the Lord without distraction. --1 Cor. vii. 35. [1913 Webster]

5. Confusion of affairs; tumult; disorder; as, political distractions. [1913 Webster]

Never was known a night of such distraction. --Dryden. [1913 Webster]

6. Agitation from violent emotions; perturbation of mind; despair. [1913 Webster]

The distraction of the children, who saw both their parents together, would have melted the hardest heart. --Tatler. [1913 Webster]

7. Derangement of the mind; madness. --Atterbury.

Syn: Perplexity; confusion; disturbance; disorder; dissension; tumult; derangement; madness; raving; franticness; furiousness. [1913 Webster]