Ravished: meaning, definitions and examples
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ravished
[ ˈrævɪʃt ]
emotional state
Ravished is often used to describe a state of overwhelming emotion, typically associated with intense joy, ecstasy, or rapture. It suggests a complete absorption in a feeling that almost consumes an individual. The term can also imply a sense of being transported beyond ordinary experience, whether through beauty, love, or another strong emotion.
Synonyms
delighted, ecstatic, enraptured.
Examples of usage
- She was ravished by the beauty of the sunset.
- He felt ravished by her smile.
- The audience was ravished by the performance.
physical act
Ravished can denote the act of seizing by force, especially in a context related to sexual violence. It is historically associated with the term 'rape', conveying a significant and traumatic violation of a person's autonomy. This usage carries a heavy and distressing connotation, often linked to discussions about consent and violence.
Synonyms
assaulted, attacked, violated.
Examples of usage
- The villagers were ravished during the conflict.
- She spoke about the horrors of being ravished.
- The narrative described a society where many were ravished against their will.
Etymology
The word 'ravished' comes from the Latin 'rapere', meaning 'to seize' or 'to carry away'. The term evolved through Old French as 'ravir', retaining the sense of being taken violently or forcefully. Its roots are linked to notions of taking with a certain power, often emphasizing the intensity of the act whether in the context of emotions or aggression. Over time, while 'ravished' maintained some of these meanings, its use in emotional contexts gained prominence, especially in literature and poetry, where it depicted a state of blissful surrender or overwhelming joy. The dual connotation of the word, encompassing both ecstasy and violation, makes it particularly impactful in discussions regarding the experiences and feelings of individuals in various scenarios.