| 释义 |
optation|ɒpˈteɪʃən|
[ad. L. optātiōn-em a wishing (also in rhetorical sense), n. of action from optāre (see opt). Cf. F. optation, in rhetoric.]
1. a. The action of wishing; a wish or desire. b. Rhet. The expression of a wish under the form of an exclamation.
1577Peacham Gard. Eloquence P iij, To this..belong..Optation, Obtestation, Interrogation. 1609R. Barnerd Faithf. Sheph. 67 Optation; when we fall to wishing, to declare our desire and good will towards them: it procureth good will. 1646Sir T. Browne Pseud. Ep. 48 Regulating their determined realityes unto their private optations. 1651Biggs New Disp. 200 To which she hath had a strong optation. 1922E. Pound Let. 4 May (1971) 177 As you have been so explicit in yr. optation of undisturbed solitude I hesitate to offer to prolong my sojourn in Italy.
2. A choice or preference.
1874Ward Ess. (1884) I. 290 His inclination towards the immediate leaving school may be called (if you will) an ‘optation’; but it cannot be called a desire. |