Crossword Dictionary

What's The Definition Of Ecstasy?

\Ec"sta*sy\, n.; pl. {Ecstasies}. [F. extase, L. ecstasis, fr. Gr. ?, fr. ? to put out of place, derange; ? = ? 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. Like a mad prophet in an ecstasy. --Dryden. This is the very ecstasy of love. --Shak. 2. Excessive and overmastering joy or enthusiasm; rapture; enthusiastic delight. He on the tender grass Would sit, and hearken even to ecstasy. --Milton. 3. Violent distraction of mind; violent emotion; excessive grief of anxiety; insanity; madness. [Obs.] That unmatched form and feature of blown youth Blasted with ecstasy. --Shak. Our words will but increase his ecstasy. --Marlowe. 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.
\Ec"sta*sy\, v. t. To fill ecstasy, or with rapture or enthusiasm. [Obs.] The most ecstasied order of holy . . . spirits. --Jer. Taylor.