ecstasies

from The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48
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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