Ravish: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word comes from the Latin 'rapere', meaning 'to seize or carry away', which aligns with the idea of being taken away by intense feelings.
• It entered the English language in the 14th century, originally referring to being seized or kidnapped but evolved to convey intense emotions like delight.

Literature

• In poetry, ravishing imagery inspires strong emotions, captivating readers like a beautiful painting.
• Shakespeare used the word in his works to convey deep passion and overwhelming beauty, often in relationships.

Psychology

• Experiencing a ravishing moment can trigger the release of feel-good hormones like dopamine, creating feelings of joy.
• Intense joy can be linked to childhood experiences, where simple pleasures can ‘ravish’ our senses, highlighting the innocence of joy.

Pop Culture

• The word often appears in romantic songs and movies, indicating emotional intensity in relationships, as when a character feels overwhelmed by love.
• Ravishing beauties are often described in fashion magazines, emphasizing striking features that captivate the viewer's attention.

Art

• Artists often create ravishing pieces that evoke strong emotional responses, pulling viewers into the artwork with beauty.
• The visual appeal of a ravishing landscape can leave viewers in awe, similar to the way great music can provoke intense feelings.

This word's position of #31,267 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.

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• 31266 cantaloupe
• 31267 ravish
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• ...