To create distractions among us. --Bp. Burnet.
2. That which diverts attention; a diversion. ``Domestic
distractions.'' --G. Eliot.
3. A diversity of direction; detachment. [Obs.]
His power went out in such distractions as Beguiled
all species. --Shak.
4. State in which the attention is called in different ways;
confusion; perplexity.
That ye may attend upon the Lord without
distraction. --1 Cor. vii.
3?.
5. Confusion of affairs; tumult; disorder; as, political
distractions.
Never was known a night of such distraction.
--Dryden.
6. Agitation from violent emotions; perturbation of mind;
despair.
The distraction of the children, who saw both their
parents together, would have melted the hardest
heart. --Tatler.
7. Derangement of the mind; madness. --Atterbury.
Syn: Perplexity; confusion; disturbance; disorder;
dissension; tumult; derangement; madness; raving;
franticness; furiousness.