from
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48
Pleasure \Pleas"ure\, n. [F. plaisir, originally an infinitive.
See {Please}.]
1. The gratification of the senses or of the mind; agreeable
sensations or emotions; the excitement, relish, or
happiness produced by the expectation or the enjoyment of
something good, delightful, or satisfying; -- opposed to
{pain}, {sorrow}, etc.
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At thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore.
--Ps. xvi. 11.
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2. Amusement; sport; diversion; self-indulgence; frivolous or
dissipating enjoyment; hence, sensual gratification; --
opposed to labor, service, duty, self-denial, etc. "Not
sunk in carnal pleasure." --Milton.
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He that loveth pleasure shall be a poor man. --Prov.
xxi. 17.
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Lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God. --2
Tim. iii. 4.
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3. What the will dictates or prefers as gratifying or
satisfying; hence, will; choice; wish; purpose. "He will
do his pleasure on Babylon." --Isa. xlviii. 14.
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Use your pleasure; if your love do not presuade you
to come, let not my letter. --Shak.
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4. That which pleases; a favor; a gratification. --Shak.
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Festus, willing to do the Jews a pleasure --Acts
xxv. 9.
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{At pleasure}, by arbitrary will or choice. --Dryden.
{To take pleasure in}, to have enjoyment in. --Ps. cxlvii.
11.
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Note: Pleasure is used adjectively, or in the formation of
self-explaining compounds; as, pleasure boat, pleasure
ground; pleasure house, etc.
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Syn: Enjoyment; gratification; satisfaction; comfort; solace;
joy; gladness; delight; will; choice; preference;
purpose; command; favor; kindness.
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