- extasy
- Ecstasy Ec"sta*sy, n.; pl. {Ecstasies}. [F. extase, L.
ecstasis, fr. Gr. ?, fr. ? to put out of place, derange; ? =
'ek out + ? to set, stand. See {Ex-}, and {Stand}.] [Also
written {extasy}.]
1. The state of being beside one's self or rapt out of one's
self; a state in which the mind is elevated above the
reach of ordinary impressions, as when under the influence
of overpowering emotion; an extraordinary elevation of the
spirit, as when the soul, unconscious of sensible objects,
is supposed to contemplate heavenly mysteries.
[1913 Webster]
Like a mad prophet in an ecstasy. --Dryden. [1913 Webster]
This is the very ecstasy of love. --Shak. [1913 Webster]
2. Excessive and overmastering joy or enthusiasm; rapture; enthusiastic delight. [1913 Webster]
He on the tender grass Would sit, and hearken even to ecstasy. --Milton. [1913 Webster]
3. Violent distraction of mind; violent emotion; excessive grief of anxiety; insanity; madness. [Obs.] [1913 Webster]
That unmatched form and feature of blown youth Blasted with ecstasy. --Shak. [1913 Webster]
Our words will but increase his ecstasy. --Marlowe. [1913 Webster]
4. (Med.) A state which consists in total suspension of sensibility, of voluntary motion, and largely of mental power. The body is erect and inflexible; the pulsation and breathing are not affected. --Mayne. [1913 Webster]
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English. 2000.
