Ecstasies

1 definition found

From The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48 [gcide]:

  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.
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              Like a mad prophet in an ecstasy.     --Dryden.
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              This is the very ecstasy of love.     --Shak.
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     2. Excessive and overmastering joy or enthusiasm; rapture;
        enthusiastic delight.
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              He on the tender grass
              Would sit, and hearken even to ecstasy. --Milton.
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     3. Violent distraction of mind; violent emotion; excessive
        grief of anxiety; insanity; madness. [Obs.]
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              That unmatched form and feature of blown youth
              Blasted with ecstasy.                 --Shak.
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              Our words will but increase his ecstasy. --Marlowe.
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     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.
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