\Dis*trac"tion\, n. [L. distractio: cf. F.
distraction.]
1. The act of distracting; a drawing apart; separation.

         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.