n. [ L. rapere, raptum, to carry off by force. See Rapid. ] 1. A seizing by violence; a hurrying along; rapidity with violence. [ Obs. ] [ 1913 Webster ]
That 'gainst a rock, or flat, her keel did dash
With headlong rapture. Chapman. [ 1913 Webster ]
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. [ 1913 Webster ]
Music, when thus applied, raises in the mind of the hearer great conceptions; it strengthens devotion, and advances praise into rapture. Addison. [ 1913 Webster ]
You grow correct that once with rapture writ. Pope. [ 1913 Webster ]
3. A spasm; a fit; a syncope; delirium. [ Obs. ] Shak. [ 1913 Webster ]
Syn. -- Bliss; ecstasy; transport; delight; exultation. [ 1913 Webster ]