pleasure (definition)

(definition) by Webster 1913

(unvotable) (I like it!)

Wed Dec 22 1999 at 2:03:41

35 ¶, 66 s, 292 w, 2673 c

Pleas"ure (?), n. [F. plaisir, originally an infinitive. See Please.]

The gratification of the senses or of the mind; agreeable sensations or emotions; the excitement, relish, or happiness produced by the expectation or the enjoyment of something good, delightful, or satisfying; -- opposed to pain, sorrow, etc.

At thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore. Ps. xvi. 11.

Amusement; sport; diversion; self-indulgence; frivolous or dissipating enjoyment; hence, sensual gratification; -- opposed to labor, service, duty, self-denial, etc.

"Not sunk in carnal pleasure."

Milton.

He that loveth pleasure shall be a poor man. Prov. xxi. 17.

Lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God. 2 Tim. iii. 4.

What the will dictates or prefers as gratifying or satisfying; hence, will; choice; wish; purpose.

"He will do his pleasure on Babylon."

Isa. xlviii. 14.

Use your pleasure; if your love do not presuade you to come, let not my letter. Shak.

That which pleases; a favor; a gratification.

Shak.

Festus, willing to do the Jews a pleasure Acts xxv. 9.

At pleasure, by arbitrary will or choice. Dryden. -- To take pleasure in, to have enjoyment in. Ps. cxlvii. 11.

Pleasure is used adjectively, or in the formation of self-explaining compounds; as, pleasure boat, pleasure ground; pleasure house, etc.

Syn. -- Enjoyment; gratification; satisfaction; comfort; solace; joy; gladness; delight; will; choice; preference; purpose; command; favor; kindness.

Pleas"ure, v. t. [imp. & p. p. Pleasured (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Pleasuring.]

To give or afford pleasure to; to please; to gratify.

Shak.

[Rolled] his hoop to pleasure Edith. Tennyson.

Pleas"ure, v. i.

To take pleasure; to seek pursue pleasure; as, to go pleasuring.