Ecstasy, n.; pl. Ecstasies.
Etymology: [F. extase, L. ecstasis, fr. Gr. 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.
2 more senses
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.
1 other Webster entry under this spelling
Ecstasy, v. t.
To fill ecstasy, or with rapture or enthusiasm. [Obs.] The most ecstasied order of holy . . . spirits. Jer. Taylor.
Shades of meaning
Fernald has no entry of its own for ecstasy; he lists it under enthusiasm, happiness.
Where he writes about it:
Delight is vivid, overflowing happiness of a somewhat transient kind; ecstasy is a state of extreme or extravagant delight so that the one affected by it seems almost beside himself with joy; rapture is closely allied to ecstasy, but is more serene, exalted, and enduring. — from happiness