Rapture \Rap"ture\ (r[a^]p"t[-u]r; 135), n. [L. rapere, raptum,
to carry off by force. See
Rapid.]
1. A seizing by violence; a hurrying along; rapidity with
violence. [Obs.]
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That 'gainst a rock, or flat, her keel did dash
With headlong rapture. --Chapman.
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2. The state or condition of being rapt, or carried away from
one's self by agreeable excitement; violence of a pleasing
passion; extreme joy or pleasure; ecstasy.
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Music, when thus applied, raises in the mind of the
hearer great conceptions; it strengthens devotion,
and advances praise into rapture. --Addison.
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You grow correct that once with rapture writ.
--Pope.
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3. A spasm; a fit; a syncope; delirium. [Obs.] --Shak.
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Syn: Bliss; ecstasy; transport; delight; exultation.
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