suspended animation

suspended animation
    n 1: a temporary cessation of vital functions with loss of
         consciousness resembling death; usually resulting from
         asphyxia
    

Animation \An`i*ma"tion\, n. [L. animatio, fr. animare.]
   1. The act of animating, or giving life or spirit; the state
      of being animate or alive.
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            The animation of the same soul quickening the whole
            frame.                                --Bp. Hall.
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            Perhaps an inanimate thing supplies me, while I am
            speaking, with whatever I possess of animation.
                                                  --Landor.
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   2. The state of being lively, brisk, or full of spirit and
      vigor; vivacity; spiritedness; as, he recited the story
      with great animation.
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   {Suspended animation}, temporary suspension of the vital
      functions, as in persons nearly drowned.
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   Syn: Liveliness; vivacity; spirit; buoyancy; airiness;
        sprightliness; promptitude; enthusiasm; ardor;
        earnestness; energy. See {Liveliness}.
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