ravish
UK: ˈrævɪʃ | US: ˈrævɪʃ
vt. to seize and carry away by force
vt. to fill with intense delight; enrapture
vt. (archaic) to rape or violate
The word "ravish" traces back to Latin rapere (to seize), which also gave rise to words like "rapid" (seizing speed) and "rape" (forcible seizure). In Old French, ravir retained the dual sense of physical abduction and emotional overwhelm. By the 14th century, English adopted "ravish" with both violent and ecstatic connotations, reflecting the paradoxical duality of "seizing" something by force or delight. Over time, the violent meaning became archaic, while the sense of enchantment dominated.
The painting's beauty ravished the art critics.
In medieval tales, dragons often ravished villagers from their homes.
She was ravished by the melody of the violin.
(Archaic) The tyrant ravished the kingdom's treasures.
His poetry ravishes the reader with vivid imagery.