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Rapt Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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rapt

[ræpt ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

state of being

Rapt describes a state of being completely absorbed or engrossed in something. When someone is rapt, they are often so focused on a particular activity or thought that they fail to notice what is happening around them. This word conveys a sense of intense pleasure or admiration. It can be used in various contexts, often related to overwhelming joy or fascination.

Synonyms

absorbed, enthralled, fascinated.

Examples of usage

  • She listened to the music with rapt attention.
  • The audience was rapt during the magician's performance.
  • He read the book with rapt interest, losing track of time.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • Many poets describe feelings of being rapt when experiencing nature, signifying a deep connection with the environment.
  • Classic literary works often use 'rapt' to describe characters absorbed in their thoughts or discoveries, enhancing the narrative's emotional depth.
  • In Shakespeare's 'The Tempest', characters often exhibit rapt attention, revealing their deep engagement with magical events.

Psychology

  • Being rapt can lead to a state of flow, where individuals lose track of time and immerse themselves in their activities.
  • Studies show that when people are in a rapt state while learning, they retain information better, suggesting deep cognitive involvement.
  • The sensation of being rapt also releases feel-good neurotransmitters that can enhance motivation and pleasure in the experience.

Pop Culture

  • In film and theater, moments of rapt attention can be visually represented through close-up shots of characters, emphasizing their focus.
  • Concerts often create rapt audiences, where listeners are entirely captivated by the performance, highlighting the powerful energy of live music.
  • Social media influencers often seek to evoke rapt attention through storytelling, captivating visuals, and engaging content that resonates emotionally.

Origin of 'rapt'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'rapt' comes from the Latin 'rapere' meaning 'to seize or take away', which hints at being seized by an idea or experience.
  • In Middle English, 'rapt' was used to describe being taken away by strong feelings or emotions.
  • The expansion of the term during the 16th century often related to intense emotional states or states of mind.

The word 'rapt' originates from the Latin 'rapere', which means 'to seize or carry away'. This Latin root evolved into the Old French 'rapter', which retained the meaning of being taken or seized. Over time, the term made its way into Middle English as 'rapten', evolving into the modern 'rapt' we know today. Initially, it had a broader implication related to being seized by emotion or action. The use of 'rapt' in English has shifted, and while it still retains its original connotation of being taken away by something compelling, it is now frequently applied to experiences of intense focus or fascination. Its historical journey reflects the transformation of language and how words adapt to fit new contexts while maintaining a connection to their roots.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #20,994, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.