ecstasy

Main Entry:: ec·sta·sy
Pronunciation:: \ˈek-stə-sē\
Function:: noun
Inflected Form(s):: plural ec·sta·sies
Etymology:: Middle English extasie, from Middle French, from Late Latin ecstasis, from Greek ekstasis, from existanai to derange, from ex- out + histanai to cause to stand — more at ex-, stand
Date:: 14th century

1 a: a state of being beyond reason and self-control barchaic : swoon2: a state of overwhelming emotion ; especially : rapturous delight3: trance ; especially : a mystic or prophetic trance4often capitalized : a synthetic amphetamine analog C₁₁H₁₅NO₂ used illicitly for its mood-enhancing and hallucinogenic properties —called also MDMA

synonyms ecstasy , rapture , transport mean intense exaltation of mind and feelings. ecstasy and rapture both suggest a state of trance or near immobility produced by an overpowering emotion. ecstasy may apply to any strong emotion (as joy, fear, rage, adoration) <religious ecstasy>. rapture usually implies intense bliss or beatitude <in speechless rapture>. transport applies to any powerful emotion that lifts one out of oneself and usually provokes vehement expression or frenzied action <in a transport of rage>.

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