ecstasy

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noun ec·sta·sy \ˈek-stə-sē\

Definition of ecstasy

plural

ecstasies

1 a : a state of being beyond reason and self-control b archaic : swoon
2 : a state of overwhelming emotion; especially : rapturous delight
3 : trance; especially : a mystic or prophetic trance
4 often capitalized : a synthetic amphetamine analog C₁₁H₁₅NO₂ used illicitly for its mood-enhancing and hallucinogenic properties —called also MDMA

See ecstasy defined for English-language learners

See ecstasy defined for kids

Examples of ecstasy in a sentence

His performance sent the audience into ecstasies.
<actors are typically in ecstasy upon winning an Oscar>

Origin and Etymology of ecstasy

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

First Known Use: 14th century

Synonym Discussion of ecstasy

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>.

Other Occult Terms

augury, censor, invocation, lucidity, metempsychosis, mojo, numinous, preternatural, weird, wraith

ECSTASY Defined for English Language Learners

ecstasy

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noun ec·sta·sy \ˈek-stə-sē\

Definition of ecstasy for English Language Learners

: a state of very great happiness : extreme delight
: an illegal drug that is used to produce a feeling of excitement and pleasure

ECSTASY Defined for Kids

ecstasy

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noun ec·sta·sy \ˈek-stə-sē\

Definition of ecstasy for Students

plural

ecstasies

: very great happiness or delight

Medical Dictionary

ecstasy

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noun ec·sta·sy \ˈek-stə-sē\

Medical Definition of ecstasy

plural

ecstasies

1: a trance state in which intense absorption (as in religious ideation) is accompanied by loss of sense perception and voluntary control
2 often capitalized : a synthetic amphetamine analog C₁₁H₁₅NO₂ used illicitly for its mood-enhancing and hallucinogenic properties—called also MDMA, methylenedioxymethamphetamine, XTC