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.
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.
